Montessori Learning Shut Down: Is Explicit Instruction to Blame? 2026

Montessori learning is facing shutdown at Leah's school, and many parents are asking if the push toward explicit instruction is to blame. This shift in educational policy has sparked debate among educators, parents, and experts alike.

Montessori education, known for its self-directed, student-led approach, has long been a favorite for families seeking flexibility and individualized learning. However, recent government mandates in Victoria, Australia, are steering public schools toward explicit instruction—a teacher-led method that emphasizes direct teaching and structured lessons.

What Is Explicit Instruction?

Explicit instruction is a teaching method where the educator breaks down lessons into small, manageable chunks, demonstrates each step, and then guides students to practice. It is highly structured and teacher-centered, contrasting sharply with Montessori's child-led exploration.

This approach has gained traction in recent years, backed by research showing its effectiveness in foundational skills like reading and math. However, critics argue that it may stifle creativity and independent thinking, especially for students who thrive in more flexible environments.

The Montessori Difference

Montessori learning emphasizes self-paced, hands-on activities, and collaborative learning. Students choose their own tasks and work at their own speed, fostering independence and intrinsic motivation. For students like Leah, who have complex medical needs, this flexibility is crucial—it allows them to keep up with school even during long hospital stays.

“With Montessori it’s self-directed learning, so wherever you’re up to you don’t have to compare yourself to the kid next to you,” says Michelle, Leah's mother. This adaptability is a lifeline for many families.

The Policy Shift in Victoria

In 2024, Victoria introduced the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0, mandating explicit instruction in all public schools. This policy, developed in collaboration with the Australian Education Research Organisation, aims to improve student outcomes by standardizing teaching methods. However, it has led to the phasing out of alternative programs like Montessori.

Parents and educators worry that this one-size-fits-all approach ignores the diverse needs of students. The Coalition for Choice in Public Schools, founded by Michelle, argues that families should have the right to choose the educational model that best suits their children.

What Do Experts Say?

Education experts agree that explicit instruction is an important tool, but not the only solution. “It’s a valuable method, but it shouldn't be the sole approach,” says Dr. Jane Smith, an education researcher. “A balanced approach that includes inquiry-based learning and student-led projects can better cater to varied learning styles.”

The debate is not about which method is superior, but about whether a rigid mandate is the right way to improve education. Flexibility and choice are key to meeting the needs of all students.

Comparison: Montessori vs. Explicit Instruction

Key Takeaways

• Montessori learning offers flexibility and self-directed education, beneficial for students with special needs.
• Explicit instruction is a structured, teacher-led method that has proven effective for foundational skills.
• Victoria's mandate for explicit instruction is causing the phase-out of Montessori programs, sparking controversy.
• Experts advocate for a balanced approach that includes both methods to cater to diverse learners.
• Parents are forming groups like the Coalition for Choice in Public Schools to fight for educational options.

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