Barbara Isaacs

Who are you?
Barbara Isaacs, MA, BA, Mont. Diploma, *(Birth to 7, and 6 12)

I am the Academic Director of MCI, I try to keep contact with all students who register to study at the London college. Over the years I have taught all the subjects on the MCI timetables. I really enjoy teaching the philosophy and applying it to everyday life in the nursery.

What do you consider to be the best thing about working here?

I love working with the students and being part of a professional team of tutors who are committed to working with children and adults. I feel privileged to work in the field of early childhood education and to have the opportunity to be an advocate for children.

I also work with state trained teachers in maintained schools helping them to bring the Montessori approach to their schools. I find their work an inspiration and am delighted to be able to witness their professional growth.

In the role of senior Accreditation Officer I support the MEAB accreditation process of schools, which gives me an opportunity to visit schools and see many Montessori nurseries and schools not only in the UK but also abroad. This is also an opportunity for continued learning from colleagues and children.

What is your favourite childhood memory?

I cherish the memories I have of gardening with my father, and walking with my mother and brother in the hills of Beskydy, the region in Moravia, where I was born.

What do you like doing when you are not involved with Montessori?

These days are very rare so I make most of them. I love walking with my children on the Ridgeway in Oxfordshire, cooking meals for family and friends, sitting by the sea with my husband., listening to radio, a childhood habit which is usually accompanied by some sewing. Or a little bit of craft work.