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Montessori FAQ

Welcome to our Montessori FAQ section. Here, you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the Montessori approach. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please feel free to submit it at the bottom of the page.

  • Does my child need to be enrolled from birth?
    Our typical entry age begins at 6 months through our Parent & Child Program, but we encourage families with older children to enquire as well. While spaces are limited in our early programs, we are happy to discuss options and guide you through the process for children of various ages. Starting the conversation early ensures you won’t miss out on the best fit for your family.
  • Can I book a tour?
    Absolutely! The best way to experience Central Coast Montessori is by visiting our environments, exploring our spaces, and speaking with our team while learning more about our programmes. Visit our Discovery Tour page and choose the next available date.
  • Do I need to submit an application?
    Yes, all families are required to submit an application to enrol. We recommend reviewing our enrolment process beforehand to ensure you understand each step before applying. If your child is transitioning into a new cycle (Primary/Preschool or Secondary) or if you are enrolling a sibling of a currently enrolled student, please contact the office directly for guidance.
  • What are the fees?
    Education at Central Coast Montessori involves a commitment to investment, and we are sincerely grateful to all who consider joining us on this educational journey. Families with children attending Central Coast Montessori Preschool are able to recieve the Childcare Subsidy (CCS) providing they are eligible. Please visit our Investment page to learn more about our Fee Schedule's and Terms and Conditions.
  • If I already have a child enrolled at the school and wish to enrol their sibling, is it necessary to submit a seperate Application for Enrolment?
    If you already have a child enrolled at Central Coast Montessori and wish to enrol their sibling, you are still required to submit a seperate enrolment form and participate in a classroom experience and/or meeting with a lead educator, we will then work with your family to develop a personalised Transition Plan. Discounts apply for siblings and families with 2 or more children, visit the Investment page for more details.
  • What are the opening hours for Preschool?
    Preschool operates from Monday to Friday, beginning at 8am and closing at 4pm.
  • Does the Preschool take unvaccinated children?
    In NSW, Preschools generally cannot enrol unvaccinated children, except in specific circumstances.Under the Public Health Act 2010, children must be fully immunised for their age, be on a catch-up schedule, or have a medical reason to be exempt from vaccination to be enrolled. Please refer to NSW Health for further information.
  • Do you offer extended hours childcare?
    No, we do not offer extended hours childcare. Our Preschool operates from 8.00am to 4.00pm, with the usual day for a child running between 8.45am and 3.00pm. After completing the Parent & Child classes (Preschool readiness) - children begin with a couple hours, then a couple of half days each week. This is followed by a gradual move into full days - starting with a few, then expanding as the child is ready. This step-by-step approach ensures a smooth transition and supports each child’s wellbeing and readiness for full-time attendance. It is not a “drop-and-run” or 12-hour care model, but a carefully prepared environment where children are given developmentally appropriate time and space to learn, grow, and flourish.
  • What is the 'CCS' or Childcare Subsidy?
    The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a government assistance program. For parents covering session fees for children aged 3 to 5 attending Preschool, the school receives the CCS payment from the Department of Human Services and applies it to the parent’s account. Any Centrelink rebates available to eligible families will also be credited to the family’s account, with the remaining gap cost to be paid by the family. For questions regarding eligibility, families should contact Centrelink directly.
  • Do you offer before and after school care?
    At this time we do not offer out of school hours care.
  • Will my child receive homework?
    Unlike traditional schools, Montessori education generally does not assign conventional homework, as we believe children benefit from unstructured time to play, engage in family activities, and explore their personal interests. Our classroom structure is designed to maximise learning during school hours, allowing families to enjoy quality time together after the day ends. In the Montessori approach, homework is usually minimal and focuses on encouraging self-directed learning and family involvement rather than completing standard assignments.
  • Will my child wear a uniform?
    No, a uniform is not required. However, students are expected to adhere to a simple dress code. The emphasis is on comfortable, easy-to-wear clothing that does not display characters or branding, enabling children to move freely and comfortably throughout the day without distraction.
  • Do you offer Secondary education?
    Our Adolescent Community is planned to commence in 2027. To find out more about this exciting opportunity and to register your interest - click here. You will then be able to access further details about the program.
  • How well do children from Montessori Preschool and Primary programs perform in secondary school?
    The emphasis on self-directed learning encourages students to take responsibility—not only for their own learning but also for their environment and peers. Working within mixed-age groups nurtures leadership qualities, collaboration, and mentoring skills, which foster a sense of confidence when working with others. Moreover, Montessori students gain practical experience in meeting deadlines, balancing workloads, and adapting to different teaching styles, making their transition into more structured schooling smoother. Central Coast Montessori Secondary is slated for 2027, with spaces available for Year 7 and 8 students. This creates a wonderful opportunity for students who have been immersed in Montessori education to enjoy a seamless educational journey within a learning environment that is perfectly attuned to the needs of the adolescent community, supporting continued growth and development within a familiar philosophy. Aumni often highlight how their early education equips them for secondary school. Their background in critical thinking, self-motivation, and resilience allows them to face new challenges proactively. The independence fostered in a Montessori setting helps students advocate for themselves, create meaningful connections, and approach difficulties with confidence. Beyond academics, the values and skills developed at Central Coast Montessori prepare students for lifelong success. The Montessori approach cultivates adaptable, confident, and capable individuals ready to excel in secondary education and beyond.

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