About International Montessori Schools
Dedicated to nurturing the whole child through authentic Montessori education across the Main Line PA area since 2004.
Welcome
Welcome to International Montessori Schools
We are delighted that you are considering International Montessori Schools for your child. Our schools provide a warm, nurturing, and intellectually stimulating environment where children from 6 weeks to 6 years old can grow, explore, and discover their true potential.
Founded on the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori, our programs are designed to respect the natural development of each child. We believe that children are naturally curious and capable learners, and our role is to provide the right environment, materials, and guidance to support their individual journey.
With four campuses located throughout the greater Philadelphia Main Line area in Malvern, Paoli, West Chester, and Royersford we are conveniently located to serve families across Chester County, Montgomery County, and beyond.
We invite you to visit any of our campuses, meet our dedicated educators, and experience the Montessori difference for yourself. Please call us at 484-661-0584 or email admissions@imschools.net to schedule a tour.
Schedule a TourThe discovery of a child's true potential this is the heart of everything we do at International Montessori Schools. We believe every child is born with an innate desire to learn, and our Montessori-trained educators are here to guide that journey with care, respect, and expertise.
- Serving families since 2004
- Four campuses across the Main Line PA area
- Programs for children 6 weeks to 6 years old
- Montessori-trained and certified educators
- Before and after school care available
- Summer camp programs at all campuses
- Serving Malvern, Paoli, Berwyn, Devon, Wayne, Frazer, Exton, Downingtown, West Chester, Thorndale, Chester Springs, Collegeville, Royersford, Phoenixville, King of Prussia, Kennett Square, and Audubon
Our Purpose
Our Vision and Mission
Our Vision
International Montessori Schools strive to be leaders in innovative child education by providing exceptional Montessori programs that develop self-confident, independent and eager learners who are challenged to seek and achieve their full potential.
Our Mission
- Nurture enduring respect, grace and gratitude
- Stimulate academic curiosity and lifelong passion for learning
- Inspire renaissance thinking
- Strengthen global community and cultural understanding
- Kindle a sense of stewardship of the world
Respect & Independence
We respect each child as a unique individual with their own pace, interests, and learning style, fostering independence by providing them with the tools, environment, and encouragement to do things for themselves as our educators follow the child's lead.
Community
We build a strong sense of community among children, families, and educators, partnering together to support each child's holistic growth and thoroughly prepare them for lasting success in school and in life.
The Montessori Method
Montessori Philosophy
Dr. Maria Montessori developed her educational philosophy over a century ago, and its principles remain as relevant and powerful today as ever.
The Prepared Environment
At the heart of the Montessori method is the concept of the "prepared environment" a carefully designed classroom space that is beautiful, orderly, and filled with age-appropriate Montessori materials. Every element of the environment is intentional, designed to invite exploration and support the child's natural development.
The Role of the Educator
In a Montessori classroom, the educator is a guide and observer rather than a traditional instructor. Our Montessori-trained teachers carefully observe each child, introduce new materials at the right moment, and step back to allow the child to work independently. This approach builds confidence, concentration, and a genuine love of learning.
Multi-Age Classrooms
Montessori classrooms group children across a three-year age span. This multi-age structure allows younger children to learn from older peers, while older children reinforce their own knowledge by helping younger classmates. The result is a collaborative, supportive community of learners.
Sensitive Periods
Dr. Montessori identified "sensitive periods" windows of time during which children are particularly receptive to learning specific skills. Our educators are trained to recognize and respond to these sensitive periods, providing the right materials and experiences at the right time to maximize each child's natural learning potential.
Intrinsic Motivation
Montessori education relies on intrinsic motivation rather than external rewards or punishments. Children work because they find the work genuinely interesting and satisfying. This approach develops self-discipline, perseverance, and a lifelong love of learning that serves children well throughout their education and beyond.
The Whole Child
Montessori education addresses the development of the whole child intellectual, social, emotional, and physical. Our programs include practical life activities, sensorial exploration, language, mathematics, science, geography, art, music, and movement, providing a rich and balanced educational experience.
Explore Our ProgramsLeadership
Administration
Our administrative team is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of Montessori education and family service across all four campuses.
For administrative inquiries, please contact our main admissions office at 484-661-0584 or email admissions@imschools.net. You may also contact any individual campus directly using the phone numbers listed on our Campuses page.
Family Voices
Testimonials
Hear from the families who have experienced the International Montessori Schools difference firsthand.
"International Montessori Schools has been an incredible experience for our family. Our daughter started in the infant program and has blossomed into a confident, curious kindergartner. The teachers are warm, dedicated, and truly understand the Montessori philosophy."
"We were nervous about starting our son in a new school, but the staff at the Paoli campus made the transition seamless. He loves going to school every day and has made so much progress in his reading and math skills. We couldn't be happier."
"The West Chester campus is wonderful. The environment is calm, organized, and truly Montessori. Our twins have been attending for two years and the growth we've seen academically and socially has been remarkable. Highly recommend to any family in the area."
"The Royersford campus is a hidden gem. From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed. Our son has developed incredible independence and a genuine love of learning. The teachers truly know each child individually and it shows."
"We moved to the Main Line area and were looking for a quality Montessori program. International Montessori Schools exceeded all our expectations. The curriculum is rigorous yet joyful, and our daughter is thriving. We are so grateful to have found this school."
"As a former Montessori student myself, I was very particular about finding the right school for my children. International Montessori Schools is the real deal authentic Montessori materials, trained educators, and a genuine respect for each child's individuality."
Join Our Team
Employment Opportunities
International Montessori Schools is always looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our team of Montessori educators and support staff. We offer a supportive work environment, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and their families.
We seek candidates who share our commitment to the Montessori philosophy, who genuinely love working with young children, and who are dedicated to their own professional growth and development.
Current Openings
We are currently seeking qualified candidates for positions at all four of our campuses. To apply, please email openposts@ismchools.net. Positions may include:
- Lead Montessori Teachers (AMI or AMS certification preferred)
- Assistant Teachers
- Infant and Toddler Caregivers
- Before and After School Staff
- Summer Camp Counselors
- Administrative and Support Staff
How to Apply
To inquire about employment opportunities at International Montessori Schools, please contact our administrative office:
Please include your resume, a cover letter describing your experience with young children and the Montessori method, and any relevant certifications.
Contact Us