At Joyful Montessori School , Harare
Our Primary Program is rooted in the African philosophy that children are active participants in their learning journey.
At Joyful Montessori, we nurture independence and curiosity through real-life, hands-on experiences that reflect the rhythm of our community and culture.
Children thrive as they explore freely, follow their interests, and grow in confidence through meaningful work.
Our learning materials are specially designed to guide self-discovery. Children engage in Practical Life activities that build focus and self-care skills,
Sensorial experiences that sharpen their awareness, and language-rich environments that support the development of Speaking, Writing, and Reading.
We also introduce Mathematics through tactile exploration and Cultural Work rooted in Africa’s rich heritage—celebrating our geography, history, plants, animals, and scientific wonders.
This is a place where children are seen, heard, and celebrated as the bright minds shaping Zimbabwe’s future.
"The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind." - Maria Montessori
Guiding Principles at Joyful Montessori School
At Joyful Montessori School, Harare Our Primary Program is rooted in the African philosophy that children are active participants in their learning journey. We nurture independence and curiosity through real-life, hands-on experiences.
Innovation
At Joyful Montessori School, we honor Maria Montessori’s call for scientific observation by embracing a spirit of curiosity and innovation rooted in the wisdom of our people. We continuously adapt and refine our practices by drawing from African indigenous knowledge systems, community wisdom, and evidence-based Montessori pedagogy. Our classrooms are not static—they evolve with the child, the educator, and the community, utilizing both traditional tools and modern technologies to support meaningful observation, reflection, and growth.
Home
Education begins in the home and flourishes in partnership with families. Joyful Montessori fosters strong relationships among caregivers, children, and educators, cultivating a learning community that feels like home. Families are not visitors in our school—they are co-creators whose cultural knowledge, values, and voices shape the rhythm and story of the school. Together, we raise children in a circle of trust, joy, and shared purpose.
Equity
In a world shaped by colonial legacies and inequality, Joyful Montessori is a bold act of resistance and restoration. We create spaces where every child—regardless of race, class, gender, or ability—is seen, celebrated, and supported to thrive. Drawing from the African principle of "Hunhu/Ubuntu", we honor each child’s dignity and potential. We commit to decolonizing education by making our school accessible, affirming, and inclusive—one that reflects and respects the lived experiences of our Zimbabwean communities.
Beauty
We design learning spaces that speak to the soul—filled with light, natural materials, African art, music, and elements that awaken joy and wonder. At Joyful Montessori, beauty is not decoration—it is pedagogy. It tells children they are worthy of beauty, calm, and care. Our environments reflect the cultural richness of Zimbabwe and the continent, nurturing children’s spirits and affirming their place in a world that is both beautiful and theirs to shape.
Nature
In the Malagasy and Shona traditions, land is sacred. At Joyful Montessori, nature is both teacher and classroom. Children engage with the land through gardening, outdoor play, seasonal rituals, and eco-literacy inspired by local wisdom and traditions. Our environment prioritizes sustainability by using natural, non-toxic materials, serving plant-based meals, and employing eco-friendly practices. We teach children not just to love the earth but to understand their role as stewards of it.
Montessori
We believe every child carries the seeds of greatness. In our Montessori environment, we offer freedom within a structured framework, giving children space to follow their interests, make choices, and engage in meaningful work. We uphold Montessori’s belief that children are naturally peaceful and purposeful. With culturally responsive materials, multilingual experiences, and deep respect for the child's inner guide, we foster independence, compassion, and self-mastery.
Teacher-Led
At Joyful Montessori, educators are not just teachers—they are visionaries, caretakers, and co-leaders. Our school operates on a small, community-based model where decision-making is collaborative and values-driven. Teachers lead the way in shaping curriculum, building relationships, and driving change. This model enables responsiveness to the needs of our children and families, fostering a deep commitment, ownership, and innovation within the school team.
Follow the Learning Journey
Rumbidzai Yasini
JMS School Administrator
Rumbidzai Yasini serves as a committed administrator at Joyful Montessori School (JMS), where she merges her passion for child development with a strong foundation in social work. With over five years of experience advocating for children's rights, particularly in underserved communities, Rumbidzai is deeply invested in creating safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environments where every child can reach their full potential. Her work at JMS is a natural extension of her lifelong mission to empower children and families through education. She finds daily inspiration in the school’s dedication to the Montessori philosophy, particularly its emphasis on independence, respect, and holistic development. What excites her most about JMS, the Joyful Montessori School, and the African Montessori Hub is their bold vision to redefine early childhood education across Africa through culturally grounded, accessible, and transformative learning approaches.
Her journey into Montessori education was profoundly shaped by her participation in the BIP Montessori Fellowship, which she describes as one of the most transformative experiences of her professional life. The fellowship not only deepened her understanding of inclusive and innovative education, but also sparked a profound commitment to championing Montessori principles in her leadership and advocacy. It expanded her perspective on how education can be a powerful tool for social justice and equity, especially for children who face systemic barriers. Now at JMS, Rumbidzai continues to carry this vision forward, working alongside passionate educators, engaging with families, and contributing to a growing movement that places African children at the center of their learning journey.
Amanda Muchena
JMS Teacher
Amanda is a seasoned Montessori teacher and mom, blending 15+ years of global teaching with advocacy for culturally rooted learning in Zimbabwe.