Our Educational Approach

Learning that begins within.

Children are naturally curious. Montessori education gives them the space to transform that curiosity into genuine understanding.
10+
YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
Officially recognised
CANTON OF SOLOTHURN
AARAU REGION
Bilingual German / English
NATIVE-SPEAKING EDUCATORS
Montessori education
AMI-CERTIFIED EDUCATORS
AMS-certified
SWISS-RECOGNISED
MONTESSORI SCHOOL
Full-day childcare
07:30 - 17:30
Mixed-age groups
THREE-YEAR AGE RANGE
PER GROUP
What is Montessori?

An approach that truly respects the child.

Maria Montessori was a doctor, mathematician and educator. The approach she developed at the beginning of the 20th century is now used in more than 20,000 schools worldwide — and remains just as relevant today.

At its heart is a simple belief: children are not empty vessels waiting to be filled. They have a natural drive to learn. Our role is not to hold back that drive, but to guide and support it.

more about us

Independance

Children learn by doing things for themselves — not through explanations alone. Each activity is designed so that children can complete it independently.

Intrinsic Motivation

No grades, no rewards. Children act out of genuine interest, creating lasting engagement rather than short-term achievement.

The Prepared Environment

The space is not a classroom in the traditional sense. Everything is within reach, carefully organised and inviting.

Observation rather than direction

The educator steps in only when necessary. Observation comes first, allowing them to understand what each child truly needs.

Maria Montessori
Physician · Scientist · Educator
The founder of the Montessori method

Maria Montessori

Maria Montessori (1870–1952) was an Italian doctor, scientist and educator who developed a pioneering approach to education. Her work was rooted in the belief that children are naturally eager to learn and can flourish when given a carefully prepared environment and the right opportunities.

Her approach is based on observing each child’s development and providing specially designed learning materials that encourage independent learning. Today, Montessori education is practised successfully in schools and early years settings around the world.
1870
Born in Chiaravalle, Italy
1907
First «Casa dei Bambini» in Rome
1952
Died in Noordwijk, Netherlands
DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES

The Four Stages of Development in Montessori Education

stage 1

The absorbent mind

During this stage, children absorb their surroundings intensely and through all their senses. Movement, language, repetition and the prepared environment help them develop confidence, independence and the fundamental skills they will carry throughout life.
Learning through movement and sensory experiences
Language, order and repetition provide guidance
Sensitive periods shape a child’s development
Independence grows through everyday activities
1. Stufe

Der forschende Geist

Im Primarschulalter wächst der Wunsch, Zusammenhänge zu verstehen und die Welt aktiv zu erforschen. Die Kinder stellen Fragen, entwickeln eigene Ideen und erweitern ihre Vorstellungskraft. Gleichzeitig gewinnen gemeinsames Lernen, Verantwortungsbewusstsein und ein ausgeprägter Sinn für Gerechtigkeit an Bedeutung.
Zusammenhänge entdecken und selbstständig erforschen
Die Vorstellungskraft eröffnet neue Lernräume
Gerechtigkeitssinn und moralisches Denken entwickeln sich
Zusammenarbeit und Eigenverantwortung werden gestärkt
1. Stufe

Identität und Zugehörigkeit

In der Jugendzeit rücken die eigene Identität und die persönliche Rolle innerhalb der Gemeinschaft in den Mittelpunkt. Jugendliche brauchen verlässliche Beziehungen, echte Verantwortung und sinnvolle Aufgaben. Praktische Erfahrungen helfen ihnen, ihre Fähigkeiten zu erkennen, Selbstvertrauen zu entwickeln und ihren eigenen Standpunkt zu finden.
Die eigene Persönlichkeit und Identität entwickeln
Zugehörigkeit und soziale Beziehungen bewusst erleben
Lernen mit praktischen und lebensnahen Erfahrungen verbinden
Verantwortung übernehmen und Selbstvertrauen gewinnen
1. Stufe

Selbstständigkeit und Verantwortung

Junge Erwachsene gestalten ihren Bildungs- und Lebensweg zunehmend eigenständig. Sie vertiefen ihre Interessen, entwickeln persönliche und berufliche Perspektiven und lernen, Entscheidungen verantwortungsvoll zu treffen. Dabei geht es auch darum, den eigenen Platz in der Gesellschaft zu finden und einen sinnvollen Beitrag zur Gemeinschaft zu leisten.
Eigene Werte und Lebensziele weiterentwickeln
Fachliche und persönliche Fähigkeiten vertiefen
Selbstständig und verantwortungsvoll entscheiden
Den eigenen Platz in Gesellschaft und Arbeitswelt finden
"The hand is the instrument of the mind."
Maria Montessori
Materials

Learning by Doing.

Montessori materials are neither toys nor conventional classroom resources. They are educational tools rooted in an understanding of child development.

Tangible & concrete

Children understand the world through images and hands-on experience, rather than words alone. Montessori materials make abstract concepts such as numbers, language and geometry tangible. First, children explore with their hands; then, understanding follows.

Self-correction

Each material includes a built-in control of error. Children can recognise for themselves when something is not quite right, without the educator needing to intervene. This develops perseverance rather than dependence.

Boost concentration

When a child becomes completely absorbed in an activity, Montessori described this as the “polarisation of attention”. This state of deep concentration is not accidental — it is a key aim of the approach.

From simple to complex

The materials follow a carefully structured progression. Each new concept builds on what came before, allowing every child to develop at their own pace.

HOW IT DIFFERS FROM MAINSTREAM SCHOOLING

What truly sets Montessori apart.

Montessori Biloba
MAINSTREAM SCHOOL
Learning rhythm
Each child learns at their own pace
The same rhythm for everyone
ASSESSMENT
Observation, portfolios and conversations
Grades and Exams
Course format
Self-directed work with Montessori materials
Teacher-led, whole-class teaching
Age groups
Mixed-age groups spanning three years
Same-year classes
Culture of failure
Mistakes as opportunities to learn; self-correction
Mistakes used as a measure of performance
Motivation
Inherent curiosity and self-motivation
External rewards, evaluations, and avoidance of punishment
Role of the teacher
Supporting observer, providing space and time for discovery
Knowledge Facilitator, Director
FAQs

What Parents Really Want To Know.

Questions and concerns are completely natural. Here, we answer some of the questions parents ask us most often.
Still have questions?
Let's talk in person. We’re here for you.

Is my child ready to transition after Montessori primary school?

Yes. Montessori education also ensures that children acquire the academic, social, and personal skills they need for their future education. They learn to work independently, take responsibility, and understand complex connections. Each child's individual progress is carefully monitored to ensure they are well-prepared for a potential transition to a public school.

What happens if my child simply does not want to do any work?

Montessori does not mean that children are left to make every decision themselves or do nothing. Our educators observe carefully to understand why a child may be finding it difficult to engage in an activity, then offer thoughtful encouragement, guidance and appropriate materials. The aim is to nurture motivation through interest, positive relationships and suitable learning opportunities, rather than pressure.

Is Montessori also suitable for children with special needs?

Montessori can be a great fit for many children with diverse needs because the learning pace, materials, and guidance can be individually tailored. However, the child's specific situation is always the deciding factor. In a personal consultation, we will work together to determine what support is needed and whether our program is the right match.

Are there clear structures, or is everything open?

There are clear structures, established routines, and binding rules. Within this framework, children are given choices, such as the order in which they complete their tasks or the selection of appropriate materials. In the Montessori approach, freedom does not mean arbitrariness; rather, it means acting independently within reliable boundaries.

How can I track my progress without grades?

Progress is made visible through continuous observation, documentation of learning levels, discussions, and concrete work results. This is not just about right or wrong, but also about independence, concentration, perseverance, and the individual learning path. Parents receive regular feedback on their child's development.

My child is very active; will they fit into this quiet environment?

Yes, active children can also thrive in a Montessori environment. Movement is a natural part of learning and is not fundamentally restricted. However, the prepared environment helps children learn to channel their energy more purposefully, take on responsibility, and develop longer periods of concentration.

How are social skills fostered in Montessori education?

In mixed-age groups, children learn to be considerate, offer help, take responsibility, and resolve conflicts respectfully. Older children support the younger ones, while the younger ones learn from the older ones. Community, collaboration, and mutual appreciation are integral parts of everyday life.

Ready for the next step?

Experience Montessori at the Ballyhouse

Meet the Biloba team and discover our educational approach and carefully prepared environment in person.
Open Day ·
Oct 24, 2026
Ballyhouse am Park
9.30 am — Short presentation
10.00 am–2.00 pm — Open Day
Schönenwerd
No registration required.
Discover our Montessori approach and carefully prepared environment.
taster day
Visit us during the week and experience our Montessori approach in everyday practice.
Personal consultation
We are happy to take the time to answer your questions.