What's the difference between Montessori training /diploma

[me4sunny]

Hi everyone!
I hope Montessori teachers among you could help
I am choosing a Montessori degree and wonder what difference it makes weather I join the AMI part-time diploma or the one that pretty much everyone I know is doing (the The Montessori St. Nicholas Charity)

At first I really liked the latter course in particular because it offers distance learning and comes across quite modern and upbeat.
But then... AMI course offers part-time (works for me) and I think it also allows you to progress beyond the age of 6 (going up to 12)

Is there any difference in career/job opportunities at all? Chances are I would like to move around the world, open my own nursery or school somewhere or do something else (rather "just" being a teacher).

Don't know if it makes any difference but I am 37 and this would be a career change. I also have a masters degree already... and two children (infant and a toddler)

AMI is seen as purer and is recognised worldwide.

Is the St Nicholas on also called MCI? If so there are several countries where it isn't counted as a sufficient qualification to be a Montessori teacher.

Bear in mind a lot if schools may not accept a diploma gained by distance learning. You're best researching what your ultimate employers think.

Frakkinstein, thanks!
What are the usual career routs for people who go into Montessori as a career change? I surfed all the internet and what surprised me (positively) that I struggle to find dissatisfied Montessori teachers or people complaining about their classes (pupils) or their work or pay in general - that must be a good sign :-)

AMI is now also offering a 6-12 course which I really like, I actually would like to do both 3-6 and 6-12... it would be cool to work as a teacher for the older kids! but I only know about very few schools in UK (for kids over 5 yrs) so probably finding work will be quite difficult...

My ultimate goal should still be having my own place ( I personally want a school more than a nursery)

I have no idea as it's something I investigated but then didn't do! AMI is what I'd settled on if that's the route I'd gone down.

Most people I know/spoke were working in childcare of some kind before.

There are Montessori primaries, but for that you'd almost definitely need the AMI training. Talk to them and see. IMO AMI would be worth the investment anywhere though.

going to see them tomorrow and even am allowed to sit in both age groups!
really looking forward to it!!!

How did the visit go? Can you do either diploma or is it a case of one then the other?

Hi there frakkinstein and me4sunny... just reading your posts is identical to how I'm feeling just now. I would love to know what route you both went down and where that has put you now.... 10 years later! Yikes!! Really hoping you're still on this email, or if anyone else can shed any light on the montessori route I would really appreciate some advice. Thank you