Indian Institute of Montessori Studies - IIMS
Established in 1998, the Indian Institute for Montessori Studies (IIMS) proudly holds the distinction of being the first institution in India to offer the Montessori Primary Course following the departure of Maria Montessori in 1949. Recognized by the Indian Montessori Association, IIMS boasts a rich heritage of shaping passionate educators who carry the torch of the Montessori philosophy forward.
Through its comprehensive Pre-Primary and Primary Diploma Courses, IIMS has empowered hundreds of individuals to become skilled and dedicated Montessori teachers and trainers. These graduates have gone on to nurture young minds across India, fostering a love for learning and igniting a passion for exploration in countless children.
IIMS is not just an institution; it’s a community of passionate educators committed to upholding the highest standards of Montessori education. With a commitment to excellence and a legacy of innovation, IIMS continues to inspire and equip future generations of Montessori educators, ensuring that the transformative power of this unique pedagogy continues to flourish in India.
Prof. Rajendra Gupta
Chairman
Professor Rajendra Gupta started IIMS (Indian Institute for Montessori Studies) in 1998 to train teachers at the Montessori Primary level and keep it alive in India. Prof Gupta has twenty years of teaching experience in pre-primary and primary Montessori Schools in India and the USA and has given orientation courses and workshops. He has published manuals for Montessori teachers in the areas of botany, zoology, and language.
When Prof Gupta returned to India after retirement, he was invited to conduct primary training for the Indian Montessori Centre. This was the first primary course to be undertaken in India after the departure of Maria Montessori in 1949.
Prof. Rajendra Gupta was instrumental in starting several Primary Montessori schools in Bangalore. The following year Prof. Rajendra Gupta established the Indian Institute for Montessori Studies with the support of another doyen of Montessori Method, Mrs. Radha Nagraj.
A group of students of Prof. Gupta, who are passionate about the Montessori method, helped him set up the Institute, and run it now. Hence, the course is enriched with personal experiences, anecdotes, and practical tips.
Mission
Shaping inspiring Montessori educators to foster holistic growth and transform children’s futures.
Join IIMS Today!
Empower yourself with the transformative power of Montessori education. Immerse in our comprehensive training programs and unlock your potential as a nurturing guide for curious young minds.
Meet the IIMS Leadership Team
IIMS is guided by a team of passionate Montessori educators with extensive experience and expertise. Each member brings unique strengths and dedication to the mission of promoting quality Montessori education for all.
Dr. S Rekha reddy
Director
- Renowned Montessori expert with training from Prof Rajendra Gupta and Meenakshi Shivaramakrishnan.
- Extensive experience in both pre-primary and primary levels.
- Published author and researcher, sharing insights through conferences and podcasts.
Mrs. Nandini Prakash
Co-Director
- Champion of Montessori education for underprivileged children.
- Proficient Montessori teacher trainer for pre-primary and primary levels.
- Presented research at international conferences, including Brussels, Orlando, and the 2013 Montessori Congress.
Mrs. Roopa Kiran
Secretary
- Dedicated Montessorian educator with 18 years of experience.
- Holds pre-primary and primary diplomas, along with a Master's degree in Inclusive Education.
- Award-winning educator recognized for her inclusive practices in Montessori environments.
Meet the Guiding Lights of IIMS
IIMS, India’s premier institute for Montessori studies, boasts a dedicated faculty of experienced and passionate educators. Each member brings a unique blend of knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm to the Institute, nurturing future generations of Montessori teachers.
Mrs. Radha Nagaraj
- A veteran in the field, with extensive experience training teachers at IMTC and IIMS for several decades.
- Her pre-primary Montessori training under renowned figures like Mr. Joosten and Mr. Swamy lays a strong foundation for her expertise.
Mrs. Shahnaz Shakeer
- A veteran in the field, with extensive experience training teachers at IMTC and IIMS for several decades.
- Her pre-primary Montessori training under renowned figures like Mr. Joosten and Mr. Swamy lays a strong foundation for her expertise.
Mrs. Gowthami Bhragav
- An IIMS alumna who returned to enrich the Institute's team in 2008.
- A key contributor to IIMS Trainers' Training and a sought-after consultant for pre-primary and primary Montessori schools.
- Known for her research contributions, including published papers and a poster presentation at the SIIM Conference in Portland.
Mrs. Sundaramma
- Equipping teachers for the past 14 years at Gurukul, armed with Montessori pre-primary and primary diplomas, along with a B.Ed in Special Education.
- Her dedication to inclusive education makes her a valuable asset to the IIMS faculty.
Mrs. Usha Rani
- A seasoned Montessori educator holding both pre-primary and primary diplomas.
- Her expertise extends beyond IIMS, as she contributes as a visiting faculty and collaborated with Mrs. Gowthami and Mrs. Shahnaz on the Portland poster presentation.
Join IIMS Today!
Empower yourself with the transformative power of Montessori education. Immerse in our comprehensive training programs and unlock your potential as a nurturing guide for curious young minds.