About the Organisation
The Sustainability Institute is recognised as a leading institution in navigating the transition towards just and generative futures through education, research, and practice. Founded in 1999, the Institute is an international learning centre teaching, exploring and applying ways of being that are restorative. Our focus on children is centred within the Lynedoch Children’s House, Lynedoch Primary Schools and Lynedoch Youth programmes. We are experts in learning experience design for transformative education in sustainability in the African context. We offer knowledge, skills and a physical space for designing transformative educational experiences anchored in sustainability. Our expertise includes research and advisory services, offering and implementing learning programmes in partnership with other organisations, and SI-led courses and workshops.
About the Job
The Lead Montessori Guide provides educational leadership across the Lynedoch Children's House, ensuring high-quality Montessori practice, strong developmental outcomes and consistency across both the 0–3 and 3–6 environments.
Reporting to the Head of the Pre- and Primary School, the Lead Guide acts as the main guide of the preschool programme and is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day educational quality of the 0–6 environments.
The role combines exceptional Montessori practice with leadership of the school's early literacy and numeracy strategy. The Lead Guide mentors and coaches’ staff, supports children's personalised learning journeys, oversees assessment and data systems, coordinates multidisciplinary support, strengthens partnerships with families and ensures continuous improvement across the preschool programme.
Key Responsibilities
Educational Leadership Across the 0–6 Programme
Lead Literacy and Numeracy Development
Mentor and Develop Staff
Assessment, Observation and Data
Personalised Learning & Therapeutic Collaboration
Parent Partnership & Communication
Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement
Professional Practice
Since the Guide will be based on the SI premises certain non-core responsibilities are expected of him/her. Non-core areas of responsibility include:
Keep SI surroundings free of litter
Attend staff meetings where necessary
Host students as part of ilima where necessary
Requirements
Essential
AMI Montessori Diploma (3–6 Years)
Experience working in an early childhood education setting
NQF Level 4 or 5 is essential
Desirable
Experience implementing evidence-informed literacy practices
Experience working alongside Speech and Occupational Therapists
Experience facilitating parent education workshops
Knowledge of trauma-informed educational practice
The successful candidate must demonstrate:
Excellent understanding of Montessori philosophy and practice
Strong knowledge of early childhood development
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
Strong observation and assessment skills
Commitment to continuous professional learning
Excellent organisational and record-keeping skills
Ability to use data to inform teaching practice
High levels of professionalism, integrity and accountability
Ability to communicate in the following languages: English and Afrikaans
To apply
To apply, email your application by Tuesday 11th August 2026 to oona@actionappointments.co.za
