26 September - 2 October 2027

Join us on a thoughtfully curated Montessori-inspired study tour, starting in Rome and weaving through the rolling hills of Umbria to the medieval charm of Perugia.

You’ll begin your Italian adventure with a warm welcome dinner in Rome before travelling to Perugia via a hands-on cooking class and wine tasting at a family-run winery in Montefalco. As we settle into the rhythm of Italy, you will explore the birthplace of Dr Maria Montessori in Chiaravalle, visit her childhood home, and experience the region that shaped her visionary approach to education.

In Perugia, immerse yourself in Montessori philosophy in action. Observe Montessori classrooms in a primary setting from the specially designed observation balcony at the Santa Croce Montessori School and engage in discussions and workshops with passionate local educators. Learn how the Montessori approach is being implemented in Italian primary classrooms today, and gain insights to bring back to your own practice.

Alongside professional learning, there will be time to savour Italy’s rich culture, wander ancient streets, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the artistic and historic treasures of Umbria. Optional activities include food tours, art workshops, and a visit to Assisi, deepening your connection with the rich history surrounding Montessori’s legacy.

This is more than a study tour, it’s a journey of professional and personal growth, designed for early childhood educators who wish to reconnect with their purpose, learn from the roots of Montessori education, and build global connections with like-minded professionals.

Return home with renewed inspiration, practical ideas, and a heart full of Italy.

Experience the charm of historic Perugia at the elegant Rosetta Hotel. Perfectly located in the heart of the old town, this welcoming hotel blends classic Italian character with modern comfort, allowing guests to easily explore Perugia’s cobbled streets, cafés, piazzas, and cultural landmarks. With comfortable rooms, warm hospitality, and an unbeatable central location, it’s the ideal base for discovering the beauty of Umbria.

*Please note: We always strive to provide high-quality accommodation that matches the style, location, and comfort expected on our tours. While we aim to book the hotels listed, occasionally, changes may be necessary due to renovations, availability, or unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we will secure a similar hotel that meets the same standard, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay.

Enhance your professional practice with a focused primary education study tour examining Montessori-inspired education in Italy. This program offers educators the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Montessori principles and observe their practical application within Italian primary school environments.

Participants will visit Montessori-based primary schools to observe classrooms in action, focusing on prepared environments, the role of the educator, and the implementation of child-led learning across key learning areas. Discussions and workshops with experienced Italian educators will provide insight into classroom management strategies, fostering independence and responsibility in learners, and the integration of Montessori philosophy within the broader primary education system.

This study tour will enable participants to:

• Observe authentic Montessori practices in primary school settings

• Analyse the design and function of Montessori environments to support child-led, inquiry-based learning

• Examine the educator’s role in facilitating independence, concentration, and intrinsic motivation in older learners

• Engage in professional dialogue with Montessori educators and leaders

• Reflect on how Montessori approaches can be adapted and applied within their own contexts to enhance outcomes for primary-aged children

This is a professional development opportunity designed for educators seeking to refine their practice, gain practical insights from leading Montessori primary settings, and strengthen their capacity to support high-quality learning and student agency within their own school communities.

Begin your journey with a warm welcome dinner in Rome, offering a chance to meet fellow educators, share your professional goals for the tour, and settle into the Italian rhythm. This first evening sets the tone for a supportive, collegial environment throughout your learning experience.

Experience a hands-on cooking class using fresh, local ingredients at Antonelli’s Winery while learning traditional Umbrian culinary techniques. This session includes a guided wine tasting, offering insight into regional wine production and the role of food culture in Italian community life.

Explore the medieval walled town of Montefalco, renowned for its historic architecture and sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside. This visit allows you to reflect on the importance of community, culture, and tradition in shaping learning environments.

Discover the birthplace of Dr Maria Montessori, visit her childhood home, and explore The Secret Garden Bookshop. A guided town tour will deepen your understanding of the cultural and social context that influenced Montessori’s pioneering work in education.

Take time to explore Perugia’s lively streets, artisan shops, and historic sites. This is a chance to observe Italian daily life while reflecting on your learning and personal growth during the tour.

Learn about the Sorbello family’s legacy in education, culture, and social progress, and their connection with Maria Montessori, enriching your understanding of influential women in Italy’s educational landscape.

Conclude your tour with a farewell dinner, celebrating your learning, connections, and the rich experiences gained during your professional journey in Italy.

Arrive in Rome (make your own way to accommodation).

Welcome Dinner with the group.

Enjoy breakfast before departing Rome by private transport, travelling through the beautiful Italian countryside into Umbria. Visit the renowned Antonelli Winery for a wine tasting, hands-on cooking class, and leisurely lunch experience.

Afterwards, explore the charming walled town of Montefalco before continuing to Perugia and checking into your hotel.

The evening is yours to relax, wander, and soak up the atmosphere of this stunning medieval city.

After breakfast, travel to Chiaravalle, the birthplace of Dr Maria Montessori, for a truly inspiring day of professional learning and cultural immersion. Visit a local Montessori public early childhood school, explore Dr Montessori’s childhood home, and browse the beautiful Secret Garden Bookshop.

Enjoy a guided tour through the town before returning to Perugia, with the evening free to relax or explore at your own pace.

Enjoy breakfast before walking to Santa Croce Montessori School for an immersive day of observation and professional learning. Tour the school, gain insight into Montessori education in Perugia, and engage in meaningful discussions with local educators. In the afternoon, take part in a workshop and presentation at the school before enjoying a free evening to explore, connect, or unwind in beautiful Perugia.

After breakfast, enjoy a free day to experience the beauty and charm of Perugia at your own pace. Choose from a range of optional activities, including a local food tour, Italian cooking class, winery visit, day trip to Assisi, stained glass workshop, chocolate tour, or a visit to the National Gallery. Whether you spend the day exploring, relaxing, or indulging in Italian culture, this is your opportunity to truly soak up la dolce vita.

Enjoy breakfast before beginning a final immersive observation session at Santa Croce School, or an alternative local or international school visit. Take part in a reflective workshop and Q&A session focused on your classroom observations and Montessori practice. In the afternoon, visit the Sorbello Foundation to deepen your cultural understanding of Perugia. Enjoy free time to explore the city before coming together for a farewell dinner at Ristorante Ferrari.

Enjoy a final breakfast together as the tour comes to a close. Depart with new insights, lasting memories, and meaningful connections from your time in Italy. Choose to return to Rome or continue your onward travels to explore more of Italy or beyond.