Sports and Martial Arts
An active but non-competitive physical activity program is part of the school curriculum including but not limited to swimming (both pool and ocean work), soccer, football, volleyball, hockey, rugby, basketball and T-ball. A key component of this is the STAR (Stop, Think, Act, Review) Martial Arts program.
The STAR Martial Arts focus aims to encapsulate the virtue of the week on a physical level. Not only is Martial Arts about kicking and punching, but more importantly it is about developing positive role models. Anyone can achieve a Black Belt and learn to kick and punch, but can they influence others in a positive way and can they demonstrate the Black Belt qualities every day?
Adin Livnjak – Physical and Health Ed. Specialist / Martial Arts
Personal Background: I am originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, I emigrated to Australia in 1995 after living in Italy for three years. From a young age I've always enjoyed participating in all sports particularly Martial Arts.
Education and Work Experience: I completed my Physical Education (PE) Teaching Degree in 2004 at the University of Western Australia. In 2005 I joined the team at Perth Montessori School as a PE Specialist. I am a 4th Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and as part of the school curriculum we teach all children under a STAR Karate program. In addition to martial arts we also teach the children a multitude of sports including but not limited to swimming (both pool and ocean work), soccer, football, volleyball, hockey, rugby, basketball and T-ball.
Philosophy of Teaching: I have always been interested in sports and interacting with people, therefore teaching PE and Health is a great way to combine those interests. My career is incredibly rewarding, as I get to watch students make progress and to be part of that progress. It also keeps you on your toes. No two days are the same. Montessori focuses on core skills such as self-confidence, personal responsibility, respect for self & others and self-discipline. These same skills are part of a high quality Martial Arts program. Perth Montessori is the only school in Western Australia to provide a Martial Arts program as part of its curriculum having recognised the link between self confidence and improved academic performance. More importantly Perth Montessori is about developing the whole child and preparing them for life, again reflecting the core aspects of a Martial Arts program. I am proud to be part of Perth Montessori because I know that I am helping to develop a capable person with skills that will last for life.