At Montessori International College, we often speak about courage, a core value of ours that plays a vital role in shaping both our students and our school ethos. As Principal, I see courage not as something grand or rare, but as an everyday practice that helps our students become confident, independent individuals and allows our staff to stretch their teaching expertise.
The root of the word “courage” is cor – the latin word for heart. However, the English adapted it from the French corage. Originally, it referred to speaking one’s mind by telling all one’s heart.
This beautiful idea is central to Montessori education, where we encourage our students to embrace their inner strength, stand by their beliefs, and face challenges head-on.
Courage and the Montessori Method
Courage is woven into the Montessori ethos, where independence and creative thinking are key elements of learning. From their first day, our students are reassured to trust their abilities and engage in activities that promote self-discovery. By making choices, solving problems, and taking ownership of their actions, students naturally build their courage.
It’s not about taking giant leaps; courage can be as simple as standing up for one’s opinions during a class discussion, or bravely trying something new at camp. When students embark on these new experiences—whether it’s exploring nature or engaging in hands-on challenges—they’re filling their “courage basket,” small step by small step. Every time they push themselves a little beyond their comfort zone, they strengthen their ability to face more significant challenges in the future.
Independence and Courage
Independence is at the core of Montessori philosophy. With this independence comes the courage to make decisions, to sometimes fail, and to try again. Our students are taught not to fear mistakes but to see them as valuable learning experiences. Through this, they develop the courage to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and create innovative solutions to problems.
In the coming weeks many of our students will be heading off on camps and excursions that will give them opportunities to take on new roles in group activities, step up and lead, confront physical challenges or navigate the unknown. These are foundational growth experiences for our young people, and they will all draw on their inner courage at different moments throughout.
But it’s not just in the big, adventurous moments that courage is found. It’s in the quieter ones too — the student who volunteered to speak first during a presentation, the one who tried a new art technique even though they weren’t sure it would work, and the student who asked a question when they didn’t understand something.
Courage to Be Yourself
Montessori students are encouraged to think deeply about their world, form their own opinions, and respectfully express their views. This requires courage—the courage to stand by one’s ideas even when others may disagree, the courage to listen to different perspectives with an open heart, and the courage to be authentic in a world that sometimes pressures conformity.
Building Courage Every Day
Courage is like a muscle—it strengthens with use. We want our students to feel brave enough to take small, meaningful risks every day. Whether it’s speaking up for a friend, tackling a challenging math problem, or learning to tie their shoes, every act of bravery adds to their courage basket. Courage is a life-long tool that us adults on campus practice too, in teaching, in leading and in nurturing the College.
For our students, each courageous experience helps to build resilience, character, and a sense of inner confidence that will stay with them long after they leave our classrooms.
At MIC courage is not just a value we talk about; it’s a value we live. Through everyday moments we all build the courage we need to face the world with confidence and integrity.
Natalie Smith – Principal
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