Maria Tecla Artemesia Montessori (August 31, 1870 – May 6, 1952) was an Italian physician and educator best known for the philosophy of education that bears her name, and her writing on scientific pedagogy. Her educational method is in use today in public and private schools throughout the world.

Dr Maria Montessori has been described as an educator, scientist, physician, philosopher, feminist and humanitarian, and was the first early childhood educator to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Dr Montessori felt strongly that a radical reform of education was essential if there was to be any hope for peace in our time.

She intended that children be placed at the centre of society to enable all children to become caring, self motivated and fulfilled individuals, able to create a harmonious and peaceful future for humanity.