MCW - Montessori Campus Westfalia

The school follows the pedagogy of Maria Montessori, centered on the principle of "helping the child to do it themselves." It emphasizes a "prepared environment" where students learn with all their senses, work independently according to their developmental stage, and engage in long, uninterrupted work periods to deeply explore topics. The school values community, responsibility, respect, and trust, aiming to prepare children for life through a collaborative effort between students, parents, and teachers.

The school provides education from the 1st to the 10th grade in mixed-age learning groups, with a focus on the primary and secondary levels. The curriculum integrates state-mandated educational requirements into thematic, practical projects rather than traditional 45-minute subject blocks. The school also offers a full-day program (Ganztag) and provides an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for students seeking an international qualification.

The school offers pathways leading to the 10th-grade graduation (Zehner-Abschluss) and has expanded to include a comprehensive school (Gesamtschule) model. Additionally, the school provides the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) to prepare students for university studies.

The school emphasizes a supportive environment where students are guided by "learning companions" (Lernbegleiter). The pedagogical approach focuses on the individual social, personal, and academic development of each student, with a strong emphasis on self-directed learning and the assumption of responsibility for oneself and the community.

The school accepts students into the primary level and secondary level up to grade 5, with exceptions made for older transfer students. The admissions process involves submitting an inquiry form, followed by an invitation to an information session and an individual consultation. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open house events to learn more about the school's community and educational approach.

The school operates on a year-round basis with various community events, including seasonal markets, information evenings, and open house days. The academic year is structured to include regular school days, with additional opportunities for student projects and community engagement throughout the year.

The campus includes facilities in Hagen and the Gutshof Wellenbad in Schwerte. The grounds feature outdoor areas that are maintained through community efforts, as well as spaces for student projects, gardening, and sports. The school provides a prepared environment designed to support the Montessori pedagogical approach.

Students participate in a variety of activities designed to foster physical awareness and engagement with their surroundings, including forest activities, school gardening, and weekly swimming or sports sessions. Additionally, students produce goods for community markets, such as the Storchen-Café, and engage in charitable projects, including partnerships with international schools like "Deeds for needy children."