Montessori vs a CBSE preschool: what's the difference?
CBSE is a school board; its affiliated schools often have pre-primary sections that follow varied approaches, sometimes worksheet-based, sometimes play-based. Montessori is a method. A CBSE school can have a Montessori pre-primary. With NEP 2020 and NCF-FS, CBSE pre-primaries are moving towards play- and activity-based learning.
What this means in practice
Parents should look at the classroom rather than the board name.
Key differences
- CBSE: board; Montessori: method
- CBSE pre-primary practices vary
- NCF-FS encourages activity-based learning
- Montessori uses specific materials
Which should you choose?
Teachers with Montessori training are valued in CBSE schools adopting activity-based pre-primary.
Practical next steps
- List your career goals.
- Check employer requirements.
- Compare course content and cost.
- Ask admissions.
ExampleA CBSE school in Indore introduces Montessori materials in its nursery and LKG.
What to keep in mind
Requirements differ by employer and country; check before enrolling.
Common follow-up questions
Does CBSE require Montessori?
No.
Can a CBSE school be Montessori?
Its pre-primary can follow Montessori.
Sources
- National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage 2022 (NCERT)
- National Education Policy 2020 (Government of India)
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.