An impressive UK turnout at the Montessori Europe conference in Krakow

Over forty UK Montessorians including members of the MSA National Council, Trustees and staff from St Nicholas, school owners and their teachers, arrived in Krakow for the Montessori Europe Congress on Inclusion.  

The cold weather(minus one and snow in parts) was in sharp contrast to the warm and relaxed atmosphere amongst delegates from all over Europe.   

The conference held over 3 days took place in the Pedagogical University of Krakow where delegates were treated to an excellent and distinguished array of speakers, all of whom reinforced Dr Montessori's legacy that 'Every Child is Special' and celebrated the use of the Montessori method with children with special needs. Delegates  were honoured to be in the presence of the patron of the conference, Professor Hellbrugge, now in his 90^th year, responsible for setting up over 200 Montessori therapy centres in Europe beginning with a centre in Krakow in 1978.

The stimulating workshops that took place on the Saturday afternoon were a highlight for many participants.  There were over 25 to choose from including music therapy, Montessori for the elderly, religious education, speech promotion and therapy, how to include gifted children in Montessori, using the prepared environment for special needs and children with sensory issues.

Over four hundred delegates came together on Saturday evening for dinner sitting on tables occupying three floors of the oldest restaurant in Krakow, a resturant called Wierzynek dating back to 1364. It was an excellent opportunity to connect and make friends with other Montessorians in a relaxed and culturally stimulating atmosphere. (see below)

A full report on the conference will appear in the Jan-March issue of Montessori International magazine.