Teacher Assistant InternAt — IvyCrest Montessori Private School

The student intern assists the head teacher and assistant teachers in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment for young children. Responsibilities may include helping with classroom activities, preparing materials, supervising playtime, assisting with transitions, and supporting children’s social and emotional development. The intern may also observe and document student progress, assist with behavior management, and provide one-on-one or small-group support as needed. This role offers hands-on experience in early childhood education while learning from experienced teachers.

Tasks:

A student intern in a Montessori preschool classroom will engage in a variety of tasks designed to support both the children and the head teacher while developing their understanding of Montessori education. Their responsibilities will include:
- observing and assisting in the prepared environment, supporting children’s independence, and gaining hands-on experience with Montessori materials and classroom routines.

Key Responsibilities:

- Observation: Interns will spend time observing classroom dynamics, student interactions, and the Montessori guide’s approach to facilitating learning. They will take notes and reflect on child development, classroom management, and the Montessori method in action.

- Classroom Preparation and Organization: Interns will help maintain the prepared environment by ensuring Montessori materials are clean, organized, and accessible to children. They may assist in setting up activities, restocking materials, and arranging the classroom to support independence.

- Assisting with Academic Work: Under the guidance and permission of the head teacher, interns may support children in using materials.

- Encouraging Social and Emotional Development:Interns will help foster a peaceful classroom by modeling grace and courtesy, assisting children in resolving conflicts peacefully, and reinforcing Montessori values such as respect and cooperation.

- Supporting Transitions and Routines: Interns will assist during transitions, including morning arrival, work cycle, snack time, outdoor play, lunch, and rest time, helping children move smoothly through daily activities while promoting independence.

- Supervising Outdoor Activities: Interns will help oversee outdoor playtime, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for children.

-Assisting in Classroom Observations and Documentation: Interns may help with informal observations and record-keeping, learning how Montessori teachers track children’s progress and plan individualized lessons.

- Collaborating with the Lead Teacher: Interns will receive guidance and feedback from the Montessori teacher.

Training:

During this Montessori classroom internship, the student will receive comprehensive training to support her learning and professional growth in early childhood education. The training will begin with an orientation, where the student will be introduced to the Montessori philosophy, prepared classroom environment, daily routines, and school policies, including safety and child development guidelines. The student will gain an understanding of Montessori principles, including the role of the teacher, the prepared environment, and the importance of fostering independence in young children.

Throughout the internship, students will participate in as needed meetings that will provide opportunities for reflection, feedback, and goal setting. The student will also engage in observing experienced Montessori teachers to gain insight into classroom management, lesson presentations, and strategies for supporting self-directed learning.

Learning Outcome:

By the end of the internship, the student will develop a foundational understanding of early childhood development and effective teaching strategies. The student will also engage with the students by assisting in age-appropriate activities. Through hands-on experience in the Montessori classroom, the student will have the opportunity to observe and implement positive classroom management techniques under the guidance of the head teacher. Additionally, the student will enhance their communication skills by interacting with children and other teachers in a professional and developmentally appropriate manner. By reflecting on classroom experiences, observing best practices, and analyzing student behaviors, the intern will deepen their understanding of early childhood education and develop the skills necessary for a future teaching career.