The Montessori Sports Summit 2026
From Independence to Interdependence: Movement, Mastery, and Meaning through Sports.
Get your Early Bird tickets now!This years theme:
From Independence to Interdependence
This year’s theme captures the natural progression of human development as described by Dr. Maria Montessori; from the independent exploration of the individual child to the interdependent collaboration within a community. Through sports and movement, children learn not only to refine their physical abilities but also to connect, cooperate, and contribute meaningfully to others.
At the 2026 Summit, we will explore how movement becomes a path to mastery, allowing children to develop confidence, control, and concentration, while also cultivating empathy, communication, and teamwork.
We’ll look at how Physical Education, games, and sports like tennis, basketball, and football can become environments where children experience purpose, joy, and belonging; fostering holistic growth that unites body, mind, and spirit.
Speakers
Frank Dick OBE
Globally respected athletics coach, author, and mentor whose pioneering work in elite performance, coach education, and leadership has influenced generations of athletes and coaches across Olympic sport and beyond.
Louise Livingston
Serving as Head of Training at the Maria Montessori Institute in London with decades of international experience in teacher education, leadership, and educational neuroscience who recently completed her PhD in this field.
Lora Woellhaf
Head of School at The Philippine Montessori Center with a Master of Education and extensive AMI credentials spanning 0–18, backed by postgraduate training in educational leadership and management and an international foundation in child development through RIE.
Stephanie Pullman
Montessori educator and leader with over 30 years of experience; as a classroom guide, teacher trainer, and school leader and is now developing pilot environments for Montessori Tennis while supporting the broader Montessori community.
Alberto Guijarro Sabaniel
Former professional basketball player from Spain who now works as a Montessori Sports educator at Westside Montessori School in Toronto, known for his work integrating movement and sports into holistic Montessori learning environments as a Montessori Sports Fundamentals graduate
Paulien Barendrecht
P.E. teacher at the First Dutch Montessori School in The Hague, where she was also a student. Raised within Montessori education, she brings its values into her teaching. She is also a former professional handball player with experience as a youth coach.
Dr. Aura Cadis
Passionate leader in innovation, with over 25 years of experience in management and education, Aura has implemented an authentic approach and built not just a school serving hundreds of students, but a model of an educational community based on respect, freedom and responsibility- demonstrating that excellence is built through the continuous development of the adults around children.
Diana Popa
Enthusiastic Montessori 3-6 Guide, dedicated to children in developing independence, confidence, and a love for exploration. At the Montessori Foundation Cluj, she also serves as the Montessori Sports Coordinator, where she designs and leads movement-based activities that promote physical development, teamwork, and healthy habits within the Montessori environment.
Roy Ramdjanamsingh
Founder and director of Q4 Profiles and a leading specialist in behavior and communication. With his deep expertise and practical approach, he continuously drives the expansion and development of knowledge in the field.
Q4 Profiles is also a long-term partner of Montessori Sports, reflecting Roy’s commitment to meaningful collaboration and impact.
Aftermovie Summit 2025
Summit schedule 2026
Friday, July 31, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 PM - Welcome at the location
6:00 - 7:00 PM - Keynote: Lora Woellhaf
7:00 - 9:00 PM - Dinner and drinks
Saturday, August 1, 2026
8:00-9:00- Morning Coffee
9:00 - 10:00 AM - Keynote: Louise Livingston
Option 1: Montessori Tennis: Putting Theory into Practice - Stephanie
Option 2: Creating Inclusive Sports and Movement Programs: Engaging Every Child at School - Alberto
Option 2: Trust in Motion: Creating Meaningful Movement Opportunities as Camps from Toddlers to Teenagers - Aura & Diana
2:00 - 3:00 PM - Guided Networking: Ideas in Motion
3:00 - 3:15 PM - Coffee Break3:15 - 4:45 PM - Practical session by Montessori Sports & Q4 Profiles
4:45 PM - 5:00 PM - Coffee Break
5:00 - 6:00 PM - Keynote: Frank Dick OBE
6:30 - 9:00 PM - Dinner and drinks (optional/not included)
Optional, not included:
Thursday, July 30, 2026
7:00 - 8:00 PM - Evening walk in De Rijp
8:00 - 10:00 PM - Movie night (optional/not included)
Friday, July 31, 2026
1:00 - 4:00 PM - Observe at the International Football Camp
A Unique Learning Opportunity!
In the days leading up to the Montessori Sports Summit 2026, participants can take part in a 5-day Blended Montessori Sports Fundamentals Course (AMI accredited). This immersive, onsite blended course offers a rare opportunity to deepen your understanding of movement, sport, and child development, while learning alongside an international community of educators and coaches.
The course takes place 27–31 July 2026, culminating in the opening day of the Summit.
Download the course brochure
Venue: Hotel De Rijper Eilanden
The Montessori Sports Summit 2026 will take place at Hotel De Rijper Eilanden, a unique and spacious venue located in the charming village of De Rijp, in North Holland, The Netherlands.
Set amidst the peaceful Dutch countryside, the hotel offers a calm and inspiring environment — perfect for reflection, learning, and connection. Its large event halls, comfortable guest rooms, and outdoor spaces create an ideal setting for workshops, discussions, and physical activities.
De Rijp itself is a historic village known for its traditional architecture, canals, and welcoming atmosphere. Despite its serene rural character, it is only 30 minutes by car from Amsterdam, and easily reachable by public transport in about 45 minutes, making it both accessible and relaxing for international guests.
With its combination of nature, comfort, and authenticity, Hotel De Rijper Eilanden reflects the essence of the Montessori Sports approach — connecting movement, environment, and community in a setting that supports both independence and interdependence.
Accomodation
We are pleased to offer special room rates for Summit attendees staying at Hotel De Rijper Eilanden. Staying on-site allows you to enjoy the full Summit experience — from early morning sessions to evening gatherings — while connecting with fellow educators, coaches, and researchers in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
To complete your hotel reservation, simply send an email to [email protected] including your preferences and mention “Montessori Sports” to receive the Summit discount.
Contact Lucy from the hotel
Impression of previous Summits
