Each Montessori classroom operates on the principle of freedom within limits - with the limits being as important as the freedom in order to achieve balance. Each Montessori school has its own set of "ground rules" which may differ from school to school, but are always based on a core Montessori belief - respect for each other and the environment. The child is free to work at his own pace, with the materials he has chosen. The directress (Montessori term for teacher) relies on her scientific observation to determine which new activities to introduce to the child. The aim is to encourage active, positive and self-directed learning. The three-year age span (and three year cycle of learning) in each class provides a family-like grouping where learning can take place naturally. More experienced children share what they have learnt with the other children while simultaneously reinforcing their own learning. This encourages an atmosphere of co-operation rather than competition. ? See Port Elizabeth area on map to see other schools nearby.