After more than six decades, an AMI Montessori 3–6 Diploma Course has returned to the Delhi-NCR region. Hosted by Sketches Montessori School in collaboration with Supraja Montessori Study Centre, with the support of The Magic Years and the AMI training centres in Chandigarh, including VHMI Chandigarh, the course was inaugurated on May 18, 2026 — marking a significant return of AMI teacher education to North India.

The inauguration opened with quiet beauty and meaning. Children created a flower rangoli around the ceremonial lamp and chanted verses from the Upanishads, setting a peaceful tone for the morning. The planting of a sapling by Chief Guest Anuradha Shankar symbolised the beginning of a new chapter for Montessori education in the region. She was joined by guest of honour Justin McCarthy and special guest Navtej Johar, who reflected on childhood, creativity, human development, and dignity.

Alongside the course participants were alumni, educators, parents, and children from the wider community — many of whom were aware that they were witnessing a historic moment in Montessori education in Delhi. For several students, this training represents the fulfillment of a long-awaited opportunity to study AMI Montessori in the capital itself.

The first week has already flashed by. The days have been full and demanding, opening up the vast scope and depth of the Montessori approach and inviting students to think, observe, read and reflect in entirely new ways. The Delhi summer has been relentless, and even as the course began, the rooms were still receiving their final touches. By the end of the week, however, through folding, sorting, painting, cutting, sewing and preparing materials, the environment had slowly come together with care and purpose.

Most heartening of all has been the spirit of the students. They have embraced both the discipline and the values of the Montessori approach — moving quietly through the space, carrying furniture carefully with both hands, supporting one another, joining discussions openly, and listening attentively through long days of work. Despite the heat and intensity of the schedule, they have remained committed, thoughtful, and deeply engaged in the journey they have begun.

As the first weekend draws to a close, we now look forward to Week 2 of our six weeks together.