R9 Eastern England

Cousins is now region chair of the Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire region. She will be supported in a deputising role by former chair Sarah Rowledge who is now taking the role of MSA Primary Chair.

Joahnne Cousins is a Director of First Steps Montessori Ltd and owner of Wivenhoe Montessori for over ten years.  She has been working as a trainer for nurseries and local authorities as well as leading an experienced team of Montessori  practitioners who achieved MEAB accreditation in 2009.

She has been working with the MSA for several years, as a Deputy for this region and has a strong belief in Montessori practice and how we can support families throughout their time with us, leading to a positive transition to school life for all children.  She would encourage all MSA members to be actively involved in shaping the future of our organisation and participation in regional events helps to ensure good communication amongst us.  If anyone has any ideas for regional meetings or would be able to offer us a venue then we look forward to hearing from you.

The last region 9 meeting in the summer with a special theme of specific learning difficulties was held in St Thomas More School, Saffron Walden in Essex.  Jane Dupree, a qualified specialist teacher of students with dyslexia, was our guest speaker.  She has over 25 years experience in the development of literacy skills, thinking skills and study skills.  With an accomplished special education needs trainer and practitioner like Jane, the delegates recognized and highly valued her presentation. 

The delegates have given positive feedback on the usefulness of the strategies to support families with children who have behavioural problems or have shown signs and symptoms of special needs presented.  The group was inspired by Jane’s enthusiasm and encouragement in utilising additional resources and services to be accessed for the children.  Altogether, the delegates have acknowledged the understanding and interpretation skills they have learned in the seminar in assessing the needs of the children in their settings. 

Michelle Wisbey, owner of St Thomas More School, has provided the attendees with a delicious lunch and exquisite homemade cakes.  We would like to thank Michelle and her school team for providing the venue of our meeting and thus giving us the opportunity to explore her new Montessori setting. 

– Joanne Cousins, Region 9 Chair