CORNER OF HOPE

The Corner of Hope is a pilot initiative to demonstrate how Montessori teacher training and schools can be delivered to the most vulnerable communities such as those in refugee, transit and IDP Camps, with limited resources.

Its aim is self-reliance not dependence, community not school. Self ownership and control, dignity and self-worth all play an important role in overcoming the trauma experienced by the inhabitants of the camps.

It has the added advantage of building for the future and creating transferable skills that will accompany both adults and children wherever their final destination may be.

 The key focus is for the community to take ownership of all aspects of the process, from construction, to making materials and teacher training.

10 years into existence, the Corner of Hope school in New Canaan is thriving and has become a centre for the community. A second location has opened at a nearby location called Kisima at the request of the community. Corner of Hope has become a model for inspiration and replication, demonstrating a strong foundation in community building, skilled and motivated teachers and flourishing children.

NUMBER OF STUDENTS

TEACHERS TRAINED

SETS OF MATERIALS PRODUCED

HOUSES BUILT

“Corner of Hope is a beacon, it’s a light, and the teachers are part of that light. Without them, it would be a building alone, which would mean nothing. But with them, it’s everything”

Lynne Lawrence

THE STORY OF The Corner of Hope

Following the post-election violence in Kenya in 2007, many people were forced to leave their homes and settle elsewhere. Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps emerged in different parts of Kenya, where conditions were poor and children lacked access to education. Through a close partnership with the training college in Nakuru, a request came in to AMI to explore ways to support access to Montessori education for IDP communities. After multiple visits and many conversations with the newly named New Canaan community, their camp was identified and the idea of Corner of Hope was born.
READ MORE

STORIES

Over the years, many people have contributed to Corner of Hope in different ways. The collaboration and dedication of all of these people is what has made Corner of Hope a success. For every single person involved, commitment to the children and the school has been at the core. Their experiences and stories highlight the passion and we are delighted to share these stories.

READ OUR STORIES

THE CORNER OF HOPE PODCAST

In the podcast created in celebration of the 10 year anniversary of Corner of Hope, different people involved look back on those past 10 years. Teachers, mentors, community members, AMI Executive Director Lynne Lawrence and the CEO of Montessori for Kenya, Hillary Korir, share their stories, experiences and reflections.

The podcast tells the story of Corner of Hope from the very beginning through the voices of the people involved. It explains how Corner of Hope came into being and discusses the learnings along the way, as well as the plans for the future. It is an intimate podcast that reflects the various experiences and perspectives which are all part of the inspiring story of Corner of Hope.

Part 1 - The Beginning

Created in celebration of the 10 year anniversary of Corner of Hope, we hear the people involved in the project look back on the past 10 years.

Part 2 - The Community

Episode 2 of the Corner of Hope podcast focuses on the involvement of the New Canaan community and the development of the school throughout the years. 

Part 3 - The Future

In part three of the Corner of Hope Podcast series, we reflect on the learnings gained along the way and our dreams and plans for the future of  Montessori education in Kenya.