In 2007 the world Montessori community celebrates the 100th anniversary of a revolution in education.
100 years ago Dr Maria Montessori began to explore the true nature of childhood through extensive scientific observation. We proudly recognise a century of great work, inspired by these discoveries:
· the purpose of education is to nurture the energies of childhood – intellectual, physical, emotional, moral and spiritual – so that every member of the human race can make a constructive contribution to the world
· all children deserve the best possible conditions at every stage of their development
· all children, in the best educational conditions develop creative and flexible minds easily adapted to the complexities of human society
· all children, in the best educational conditions demonstrate innate discipline, joyful and focused work and empathy with others. They are tireless and selfless in their work
· all children possess inner directives to guide their own development
· all children fully developed become individuals committed to human solidarity, social progress and peace
We declare our commitment now and in the future:
· to participate in a universal social movement that places children at the centre of society, recognising them as citizens of the world
· to promote knowledge and understanding of the conditions necessary for the full development of the human being from conception to maturity both at home and in society
· to create a climate of opinion and opportunities for the full development of the potential of all young people so that humanity may work in harmony for a higher and more peaceful civilisation
· to reform education as a reciprocal, lifelong process in which every member of the human race is profoundly engaged