Home / Sitemap / Sitemap CENTRAL COAST MONTESSORI About Welcome from the Principal Vision, mission and values Term Dates Governance Annual Report Why CCM? What Sets Us Apart Is Montessori for You? Birth of a Movement Montessori FAQ Recommended Reading & Resources Admissions Enrolment Process Apply to Enrol Application for Enrolment Enrolment Conditions View Our Prospectus Prospectus Investment 2025 Early Years Fee Schedule 2025 Primary Years Fee Schedule Frequently Asked Questions (Admissions) The Early Years About the Early Years Parent & Child (Ages 0-3) Preschool Program (Ages 3-6) The Early Years Curriculum The Early Years Gallery Primary About Primary Lower Primary Upper Primary Primary Curriculum Primary Years Gallery Secondary Expressions of Interest (Years 7 and 8 2027) Careers Working at Central Coast Montessori Current opportunities MyCCM Family App Compliance Policy Library Anti-Bullying Policy Anti-Discrimination Policy Child Safety Code of Conduct Child Safety Wellbeing Policy Community Code of Conduct Complaints Policy Complaints and Grievance Resolution Policy Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying Statement (Employees, Contractors & Volunteers) Privacy Policy Work, Health and Safety Statement Sushi Friday Orders (Preschool & Primary Campus Only) Shuttle Bus Information CCM Family Handbook News & Events The Coddiewompler (Publication) Events Contact/Enquiries

Lower Primary (ages 6–9): a foundational Montessori stage integrating Cosmic Education with NSW curriculum in collaborative, mixed-age classrooms fostering reasoning, moral awareness, and creative thought. discover more UPPER PRIMARY PRIMARY CURRICULUM Home / Lower Primary / Lower Primary BUILDING ON THE EARLY YEARS Exploring Montessori for 6-9 Year Olds In the Lower Primary stage, children embark on their 'cosmic education' journey. Developmentally, this phase serves as a period of construction, as children progress at their own pace from the absorbent and sensorial aspects of early childhood into the second plane of development. Here, we witness the emergence of more reasoning and creative thought processes. This time is also marked by heightened social awareness, where young learners begin to engage with moral concepts and explore ideas of justice. Our Lower Primary program features mixed-aged classrooms accommodating (mainstream Years 1, 2, and 3), facilitating a collaborative environment where students can support and learn from each other. The school seamlessly integrates the NSW mandated curriculum with the Montessori curriculum within a student-focused framework designed to promote individualised learning. Montessori educators offer a diverse range of choices and activities within a prepared environment, maintaining clear boundaries and expectations. This approach empowers children to take responsibility for their own learning while fostering respect for the needs and rights of their peers.

Curious if Montessori is right for your child and family? Explore key principles, benefits, and perspectives to help you decide with confidence. Home / Is Montessori for you? / Is Montessori for you? UNDERSTANDING MONTESSORI As parents, we inevitably reach a pivotal moment in our lives when we must make an important decision: which school to send our child to? It’s a significant question, and at Central Coast Montessori, we often encounter this inquiry: Is Montessori right for us? Our response is simple yet profound: It depends . . . Understanding Montessori Determining if Montessori is the right fit for your family hinges on how well it aligns with your expectations and educational goals for your child. It’s essential to choose a school that not only supports your child’s development but also resonates with your values as parents. To fully grasp whether Montessori is the right environment for your child, it’s vital to understand what a Montessori school has to offer. Montessori education is distinct from conventional schooling, and families that choose this approach should have a clear understanding of its philosophy and practices. Montessori learning environments prioritise self-directed learning, encouraging children to make choices within well defined and developmentally appropriate parameters. Rather than a teacher as the sole authority figure at the front of the class, Montessori fosters a child-centred approach, allowing students to work at tables or on floor mats as they explore materials at their own pace within a work-cycle. Educators, often referred to as guides, circulate throughout the classroom, providing both planned and spontaneous presentations, support and facilitating learning as needs arise. The Benefits of Choosing Montessori Those who select Montessori for their children generally share several core beliefs: Innate Desire to Learn: Children have a natural curiosity that drives their learning. Montessori nurtures this desire, enabling lifelong learning drawing upon intrinsic motivation. Teaching to Mastery: Understanding takes precedence over time constraints. Children work until they fully grasp a concept before moving on, ensuring they have a solid foundation for future learning. Respect and Reciprocity: Children learn respect by being respected; the role of the educator is to mentor, guide and role model rather than control. Joyful Learning: Education should be an engaging journey of discovery, not a stressful endeavour defined by arbitrary standards. Fostering Independence: Montessori promotes autonomy, allowing children to take charge of their learning and decision-making. Hands-On Experience: Children learn best through real-world interactions, problem-solving and experiences that are purposeful and have context. Collaboration Over Competition: By valuing teamwork and community, Montessori cultivates a spirit of support rather than rivalry. Is Montessori Right for Your Family? Montessori may not be the best fit for everyone and experience dictates clearly that when a family is not truly ready to embark upon this unique learning journey, the child ultimately will not get the most out of this amazing opportunity. Are you ready and open to learning alongside your child? Can you allow your child to be fully part of their learning space 'microcosm of the world' where they will (with support in a safe setting) face struggle and discomfort as part of their learning journey? Can you work to develop clear, consistent and age appropriate boundaries within which they will be able to thrive and you will model self-respect? Can you reflect honestly upon your own biases, conditioning and identify your blindspots? Are you ready to embark upon a path that will be both different to what you experienced but also to what many of your family and friends are choosing? Are you prepared to be challenged by a learning experience that while well researched, deeply considered and human-centred is unfolding in real time and in different ways for each individual right before your eyes? Are you committed to looking at where your thoughts and emotions may be projected upon your child and where their challenges may be rooted in yours? If a philosophy of self-guided learning, purposeful work, education of the individual, community involvement, and respect resonate with you, Montessori could be an excellent match. Understanding your individual values, goals, and your child's unique learning style is vital. Reflecting on what you hope your child will achieve—whether that be academic excellence, emotional wellbeing, or a balance of both—will guide your decision. Long-Term Commitment Making a choice about your child’s education is not simply about finding a school for the current year; it’s about envisioning their long-term educational journey. By researching, part-taking in information sessions, visiting and asking questions, a conscious, informed decision can be made that fits well with your family’s philosophy, setting the foundation for a consistent and enriching experience for the whole family. At Central Coast Montessori, transitions between stages happen throughout the whole year based primarily upon social/emotional readiness. They are carefully planned and take place over a period of time that provides space for a gradual integration, they are each a meaningful rite of passage. We ask you to carefully consider your commitment to a Montessori education. Finding the Right Fit We invite you to explore whether our unique approach resonates with your family's values. Montessori education aims to develop well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern life—encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. If you visit Central Coast Montessori and feel a connection to these principles, it’s likely that we will be a beautiful fit for your family, setting the stage for a fulfilling educational experience. We hope this helps you decide if Montessori is the right choice for you and your child. Our world needs critical thinkers and doers, and Montessori prepares children to embrace the future with confidence and joy, fostering a lifelong passion for learning. discover more BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT MONTESSORI FAQ

Home / The Early Years Education / The Early Years Education 'HELP ME DO IT FOR MYSELF' At Central Coast Montessori, the early years provide children with the opportunity to work towards the acquisiton of physical independence. With each skill developed, the growing individual also experiences a greater sense of self-confidence and self-esteem. Absorbent Mind and Sensitive Periods From birth to six, children absorb information effortlessly from their surroundings. In Montessori classrooms, hands-on, specifically designed, sequential materials support key developmental needs. Guides observe each child and introduce activities that match their interests and skills, ensuring engagement during this critical learning phase. Sensorial Development Materials like the pink tower and colour tablets are just two of hundreds of didactic resources that help refine children’s senses and to categorise the world. These activities progress from simple to complex, laying the groundwork for abstract concepts in maths, science, and beyond. Prepared Environment The classroom is designed to foster independence, with child-sized furniture, natural lighting, and organised materials within reach. Children freely choose activities, developing responsibility and autonomy as they care for their space and explore at their own pace. Social Development Multi-age classrooms encourage collaboration. Younger children learn by observing older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge by helping younger classmates. Through the dynamic daily experience within a 'classroom family/community', children develop empathy, communication, and conflict-resolution skills essential for emotional and social growth. Practical Life Skills Tasks such as pouring, sweeping, and buttoning help children manage their needs and contribute to the community. Practical life activities build fine motor skills, concentration, and self-discipline, empowering children with real-world competence. Holistic Development Montessori education goes beyond academics, integrating practical life skills, emotional growth, and social responsibility. This holistic focus ensures children develop confidence, independence, and a well-rounded skill set to thrive in any environment. Where to from here? The Early Years Journey Lets Go

Central Coast Montessori’s Primary program (ages 6–12) delivers Cosmic Education—integrated, interdisciplinary learning that cultivates curiosity, empathy, and intellectual independence. discover more LOWER PRIMARY UPPER PRIMARY Home / Primary / About Primary LAYING STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFELONG LEARNING What is Montessori for the 6-12 Year Old? At Central Coast Montessori School, we believe that the journey of learning for children aged 6 to 12 is profoundly transformative. This period marks a time for Cosmic Education—learning in an existential context where children explore their place in the universe. Our prepared environments are designed to support, guide, and facilitate the unfolding of each child's unique life, providing considered, integrated, and contextual spaces that nurture an organic balance between freedom and responsibility. As children transition into the second plane of development, Montessori observed the fading of what she termed the 'absorbent mind'—characteristic of the first stage—and the emergence of a new capacity. This stage heralds the awakening of a reasoning mind, where children develop the ability to transcend space and time, grasping deeper concepts and ideas. It is a period marked by enhanced creativity and a fervent desire for cognitive and intellectual independence. Within the Montessori primary environment, we offer a rich tapestry of experiences that serve as a doorway to understanding both the universe and each child's unique position within it. Montessori referred to this holistic approach as Cosmic Education. Through captivating 'Great Stories', impressionistic charts, engaging experiments, and meaningful timelines, children are invited to explore the awe and wonder of the world around them. Our focus is not on the segregation of subjects; rather, we encourage children to collaborate across disciplines, understanding the interdependent nature of knowledge. The years between six and twelve are also characterised by great social sensitivity. This socio-academic stage fosters a heightened awareness of morals and justice, presenting an invaluable opportunity to cultivate compassion and empathy. It is during this formative time that values hold deeper significance, paving the way for a more conscientious and connected future. At Central Coast Montessori School, we are dedicated to creating an environment where each child can thrive, explore, and develop into the thoughtful, independent individuals they are meant to be. The Great Stories (Cosmic Education) Dr. Montessori conceived the Great Stories—often referred to as Cosmic Education—as a means to introduce a holistic perspective across all subjects. This framework provides a 'big picture' overview that illustrates how sciences, art, history, language, and geography are interconnected. Through the Five Great Stories, children gain an understanding of the universe's evolution over billions of years and recognise that it operates according to specific laws that govern the harmony and sustainability of all living beings and the broader cosmos. In the Montessori primary curriculum, the Five Great Stories serve as foundational narratives that engage children with these significant concepts. These stories are first introduced in the Junior Primary years (ages 6-9) through impressionistic lessons and are revisited annually until the end of Senior Primary (ages 9-12). Unlike the younger 3-6 environment, where learning begins with smaller ideas that gradually expand into larger concepts, the primary learner is immersed from the outset in grand themes—beginning with the origins of the universe. This 'big picture' perspective provides Junior Primary students with a broader framework, enabling them to anchor smaller ideas as they embark on their own independent inquiries. The Five Great Stories cover a sweeping overview of fundamental subjects, guiding students on a journey from broad to specific understanding: The First Great Story: The Coming of the Universe and the Earth Second Great Story: The Coming of Life Third Great Story: The Timeline of Humans Fourth Great Story: The Story of Writing Fifth Great Story: The Story of Numbers By weaving these narratives into the curriculum, we inspire curiosity and foster a sense of connection to the cosmos. This approach not only enriches their academic experience but also cultivates a deep appreciation for the intricate web of life. It encourages children to explore how various disciplines intertwine and influence one another. As they engage with these captivating stories, learners are invited to see themselves as part of a larger narrative, developing a sense of responsibility and connection to the world around them.

Explore Montessori education at CCM in a 1-hour online Discovery Session. Learn about our approach and next steps for enrolment. Start Your CCM Journey with a Discovery Session Explore our philosophy, programs and enrolment pathway in a relaxed one-hour online session Home / Book a Discovery Session / There is no better way to understand Central Coast Montessori than by taking part in a Discovery Session. This online information evening introduces our prepared learning environments, our approach to child development, and the principles that guide our work each day. You will meet members of our team, explore our programs, and gain a clear picture of what Montessori education looks like at CCM. About the Discovery Session We invite you to join a one hour online Discovery Session to explore what makes Central Coast Montessori unique. You will explore our philosophy, programs and enrolment pathway in a relaxed one hour online session, guided by members of our experienced team. This experience introduces our prepared learning environments, the principles that shape our work, and what families can expect throughout their CCM journey. During your Discovery Session, we will: Introduce our Montessori philosophy and what it looks like in practice at CCM Show you how our Early Years, Preschool and Primary programs work and how children grow and learn through each stage Explain how we foster independence, curiosity and lifelong learning in a nurturing, supportive community Answer any questions you have about enrolment, curriculum, daily life or how we structure learning environments Who it’s for Prospective families with children aged 0 to 12 years How it works Online via Zoom. The session runs for approximately one hour. Simply register below and we will send you the meeting link prior to the day. What to expect A friendly, personal conversation with one of our guides or admissions team. Clear explanation of our programs, community, and how we support children and families. Space to ask your questions and talk about your child’s needs and interests. Click below to reserve your space — we’ll be in touch with a Zoom link and further details. Thu, 5 Feb 2026, 7:30pm - 8:30pm AEDT Tue, 21 Apr 2026, 7:30pm - 8:30pm AEST Tue, 21 Jul 2026, 7:30pm - 8:30pm AEST Tue, 13 Oct 2026, 7:30pm - 8:30pm AEDT We look forward to welcoming you to CCM and helping you discover whether our Montessori community is the right fit for your family. Ready to get started?

Explore our Montessori FAQ: straightforward answers to common questions about our approach, admissions, and programs at Central Coast Montessori. Home / Montessori FAQ / Montessori FAQ ANSWERS TO COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS 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. Is Central Coast Montessori just a Preschool? Central Coast Montessori offers progams from birth, through to upper Primary with Secondary (years 7 and 8) slated for 2027. What is the difference between Montessori and traditional education? What distinguishes Montessori education from traditional schooling from the industrial revolution style schooling widely practiced today? For children under six, Montessori emphasises sensory-based learning, engaging all five senses, rather than solely relying on listening, watching, or reading. Students progress at their own pace and choose activities from a wide range of options. Instead of sitting passively in a group lesson, children participate in individual or small group projects with materials introduced personally by the educators, tailored to each child's readiness. This approach makes learning an engaging journey of discovery, building concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a lifelong love of learning. For students over six, the focus shifts to developing independence through research, organising Going-Out Experiences, interviewing experts, and creating presentations, plays, art exhibits, musical performances, and science projects. The environment encourages creative exploration without traditional textbooks, scheduled lessons, or adult-led group instruction. While respecting each child's choices, students often surpass expectations typical of conventional education. Learning becomes a purposeful activity where children enjoy their studies, collaborate, and often teach one another, promoting a culture of sharing and inspired learning rather than competition. Why does Montessori have multi age classrooms? Multi-age settings give us the flexibility to tailor the curriculum to meet each child's unique development and real life experience. We spend time with people of different sexes, ages and abilities/skills. Children can progress at their own pace while still feeling connected within their peer community. Additionally, having a range of ages in the same classroom encourages older children to take on leadership roles, fostering confidence and social skills—even for those who might be shy or reserved. Are Montessori schools affiliated with any religion? No, they are not. Montessori education focuses on the development of the whole child without aligning with any religious beliefs or traditions. This approach fosters a classroom environment that is highly diverse, embracing students from various cultural, religious, and cultural backgrounds. Is Montessori a franchise/chain? No, Montessori is not a franchise. The term 'Montessori' is not trademarked, so anyone—regardless of their training, experience, or affiliation—can open a school claiming to be Montessori. It’s important for parents to research carefully to ensure they select an authentic Montessori program. While there are larger chains in Australia, many of these centres are Montessori 'themed' rather than true Montessori schools, often using only some materials without proper guidance from trained Montessori educators. Is Montessori a cult? No - but the question usually comes from people who haven’t looked very far into what Montessori really is. Montessori is a century-old, evidence-based approach to education, practised in thousands of schools worldwide. Families can seem especially passionate, but that enthusiasm comes from seeing their children grow into confident, capable learners — not from secret handshakes. Montessori communities are often close-knit because they are more than schools; they become villages of learning, dynamic ecosystems where children are offered purposeful, contextual, and experiential opportunities. If anything, Montessori is not a cult but a global movement for independence, curiosity, and lifelong learning. Given Montessori emphasises collaboration over competition, how do students prepare for real-world competitive situations later in life? Montessori encourages children to focus on 'personal-best's', developing skills such as self-monitoring, self-correction, and other executive functions that support ongoing self-improvement. Students build confidence in their strengths and learn constructive ways to address areas needing growth with daily experiences in mixed age environment's that concretely present peers not only working on diverse topics but at different stages immerses student in an unlimited space within which they exist and work daily. This builds self-belief and develops resilience for future challenges. Why do your classrooms look so different to regular classrooms? Where does the teacher sit? Where are the rows of desks? The unique organisation of a Montessori classroom reflects its distinct educational philosophy. Instead of positioning the teacher as the central figure, with children relying entirely on him/her for instruction, the environment is designed to be child-centred. Children usually work at tables or on floor mats, where they can freely spread out their learning materials. The 'guide' (not 'teacher') moves around the space, offering lessons, guiding individual students, or addressing issues as they come up, fostering independence and self-directed learning. Do Montessori schools match the academic standards of traditional schools? Absolutely. our Montessori programs are fully accredited by the educational governing bodies ACECQA and NESA. Our programs emphasise developing a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles behind skills and concepts, rather than merely practising isolated techniques through repetition. The achievements of former Montessori students showcase the strength of this approach, with many going on to excel in secondary and tertiary education, often surpassing their peers from industrial revolution style approaches to education. Are Montessori children successful later in life? Research indicates that children educated in Montessori environments tend to be well prepared for future challenges across academic, social, and emotional domains. Beyond performing well on standardised tests, Montessori students often excel in skills such as following instructions, completing tasks on time, listening carefully, applying fundamental skills, demonstrating responsibility, asking insightful questions, displaying enthusiasm for learning, and adapting to new situations. Submit a New Question Name* Email* Message* Submit Start the Journey ENQUIRE NOW BOOK A TOUR APPLY NOW

Learn about the enrolment process at Central Coast Montessori. A clear step-by-step guide to joining our Preschool or Primary programs. discover more APPLY NOW ADMISSIONS FAQ Home / Enrolment Process / Enrolment Process APPLYING TO CCM Thank you for your interest in enrolling your child at Central Coast Montessori. Please take some time to review the following steps below to complete your application. To apply for enrolment at Central Coast Montessori, families are encouraged to begin by exploring whether Montessori is the right fit for their child and family. You can do this by reviewing our FAQ , recommended reading and information available on our website, along with booking a campus tour . We recommend investing time in understanding the principles of Montessori education, as it is a researched-based, scientific approach to human development refined through years of observation. This understanding will help ensure your family receives the full benefit of the Montessori experience. Alongside your own research, you will book in and participate in a one-hour Discovery Session . This online session is designed to help you understand the key distinctions of Montessori education and provides an opportunity to have any pressing questions answered. Once you have familiarised yourself with Montessori education, the next step is to apply to enrol which collects basic information about your family and your child and a non-refunable fee of $250 which covers administration and further Montessori learning for you. After submitting your application, our admissions team will be in touch to organise the upcoming steps. The Learn & Observe step begins with completing the Intentional Guide Seminar , a two-hour in-person session offering a thorough overview of Montessori principles and practices. This course provides practical insights into applying Montessori at home and in the classroom. Families then book in to attend a Guided Observation /Tour of CCM to experience firsthand the Montessori difference. Both these steps support families in making an informed decision. Participation in these stages is a prerequisite for placement consideration but does not guarantee admission. Following this, Early Years parents will be offered a classroom experience which they will attend with their child while Primary years applicants will first meet with a lead educator prior to being offered a classroom experience. After the classroom visit, a member of our admissions team, along with educators, will work with your family to develop a personalised Transition Plan. This plan considers your child’s individual needs and outlines specific support strategies to facilitate a smooth and successful integration into the Montessori environment, respecting the integrity of the learning space. Provisional Enrolment — Offer of Place and Start Date Once the transition plan is established, families will be asked to agree to the outlined steps, sign an Enrolment Agreemen t , and pay the enrolment investment . At this stage, families will receive a formal offer of a place, along with a proposed start date within the next available admission window. Start the Journey ENQUIRE NOW BOOK A TOUR APPLY NOW *Admissions Windows — Please note that due to the dynamic nature of a Montessori learning community (classroom family) we must consider what stage each learning environment is at prior to introducing a new student to ensure the best possible start for each child while respecting and maintaining the integrity of the learning space. *Provisional Enrolment Periods — All new enrolments go through what initially is a three month provisional stage during which both CCM and the family remaiin in regular contact to acertain in real time whether the relationship is both beneficial and optimum for all parties. Following the three month period a brief collaborative conference helps to address any matters arising before a mutual agreement is made to formalise the enrolment. We look forward to supporting you and your child on this exciting journey. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out by lodging an Enquiry

Download the Central Coast Montessori Prospectus to explore our Preschool and Primary programs, unique approach, and commitment to high-quality Montessori education. Home / Prospectus / View Our Prospectus To learn more about Central Coast Montessori, please view the Prospectus below. Our Prospectus provides valuable insights into life at Central Coast Montessori, highlighting how students embark on a wonderful learning journey filled with enriching experiences and opportunities for growth. If you have any further questions, please feel free to complete an online enquiry . Our Admissions team will be in touch within 24-48 hours to assist you. VIEW PROSPECTUS discover more APPLYING TO CCM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOME / PRIVACY POLICY Central Coast Montessori Privacy Policy Purpose The Privacy Policy defines Central Coast Montessori’s approach for the collection, use, management, and disclosing of personal information collected as part of the School’s activities. Central Coast Montessori is bound by the requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and its obligations under the Privacy Act 1988 (the Privacy Act). Scope The Privacy Policy applies to the management of personal information collected by all campuses and operations of Central Coast Montessori in the course of our operations, including that which is collected by solicited and unsolicited means, and is applicable to the management of any personal information which is under the control of Central Coast Montessori. The management of personal information refers to the circumstances in which we obtain personal information, how we use and disclose that information, and how we manage requests to access, dispose of, and/or change that information. The policy does not apply to information that is under the control of any third party to which Central Coast Montessori provides personal information in accordance with this policy. What is Personal Information? Personal information is information or an opinion about an individual from which they can be reasonably identified. This may include: an individual’s name, signature, address, phone number, photograph or date of birth sensitive information, such as: racial or ethnic origin political opinions or associations religious or philosophical beliefs trade union membership or associations sexual orientation or practices criminal record health or genetic information some aspects of biometric information. credit information elements of employee records and notes internet protocol (IP) addresses voice print and facial recognition biometrics (because they collect characteristics that make an individual’s voice or face unique) location information from a mobile device (because it can reveal user activity patterns and habits). Collection of Personal Information Central Coast Montessori may collect personal information from an individual in their capacity as a current or prospective student or parent/guardian, contractor, volunteer, job applicant, employee, alumni, visitor, or others who come into contact with the School. If it is reasonable and practical to do so, Central Coast Montessori will collect personal information directly from the individual. In the course of providing our services, we may collect and hold information including but not limited to: General identifying information including names, addresses, emails, phone numbers, gender, and date of birth Sensitive information including place of birth, nationality, religious beliefs, medical information and history, and criminal history Financial and business information Personal information of emergency contacts Photographic images, sound, and video recordings. Generally, Central Coast Montessori will seek consent from the individual in writing before collecting their sensitive information. It is noted that employee records are not covered by the APPs where they relate to current or former employment relations between the School and the employee. However, a current or former employee’s health records are covered by the New South Wales Health Privacy Principles. Solicited Information Central Coast Montessori has, where possible, attempted to standardise the collection of personal information by using specifically designed forms to ensure that only the information required for Central Coast Montessori to provide its services is collected. However, the School may also receive personal information necessary to effectively deliver its services or meet its legislative obligations via email, letters, notes, social media, our website, over the telephone, in face-to-face meetings, through financial transactions, and surveillance activities such as the use of CCTV security cameras or email monitoring. Central Coast Montessori may also collect personal information from other sources (e.g., a third-party administrator, referees for prospective employees, etc.). Personal information will only be collected from third parties where it is not reasonable and practical to collect the personal information from the individual directly. Unsolicited Information Central Coast Montessori may be provided with personal information without having sought it through our normal means of collection. This is known as “unsolicited information” and can be collected by: Misdirected postal mail – Letters, documents Misdirected electronic mail – Emails, electronic messages Employment applications sent to us that are not in response to an advertised vacancy Information entered into or stored in online systems and platforms Information communicated through mail, email, telephone or verbal communication Unsolicited information obtained by Central Coast Montessori will only be held, used, or disclosed if it is considered information that could have been collected by normal means. If that unsolicited information could not have been collected by normal means, it will be destroyed, permanently deleted, or de-identified as appropriate. Device Information and Activity When visiting our websites/app, we may collect information about your device and activity, for example, technical information, including: The IP address used to connect your computer to the Internet Your login information Browser type and version Time zone setting Browser plug-in types and versions Cookies Operating system and platform The type of device used. Additionally, as you browse our websites and platforms, we collect information about the individual web pages or products that you view, what websites or search terms referred you across those platforms, and information about how you interact with our suite of products. We refer to this automatically collected information as “Device Information”. We collect Device Information using the following technologies: “Cookies” - Data files that are placed on your device or computer and often include an anonymous unique identifier. For more information about cookies, and how to disable cookies, visit http://www.allaboutcookies.org "Log files” - Track actions occurring on our websites, and collect data including your IP address, browser type, Internet service provider, referring/exit pages, and date/time stamps. “Web beacons”, “tags”, and “pixels” - Electronic files used to record information about how you browse our websites. Information from Third Parties Information may be collected by us or on our behalf via third parties including: The date and time of your visit to our websites IP address Documents and pages you access The type of browser and browser settings Your operating system Address of a recurring site you are about to visit Information you submit regarding payment particulars Device identifier, including Unique Device Identifiers (UDID) Device details Pages visited Language selections Cookies Tracking pixels Geographic area and location. We collect this information for the purpose of: Providing you with local information and alerts about our products and services Improving our website and services Complying with local legal obligations Gathering anonymised statistics for analytical purposes Ensuring proper function of the website and online software Any other reason allowed at law Collection and use of sensitive information Central Coast Montessori will only collect sensitive personal information if it is: reasonably necessary for the delivery of our services or to meet our legislative obligations necessary to lessen or prevent a serious threat to life, health or safety another permitted health situation. Central Coast Montessori may share sensitive information with other entities in our organisational structure, but only if necessary, to provide our services. Sensitive information may also be disclosed outside of Central Coast Montessori where required or permitted under legislation. Use of Personal Information Central Coast Montessori only uses personal information that is reasonably necessary to deliver our services (the primary purpose), for a related secondary purpose that would be reasonably expected by the individual, or for an activity or purpose to which an individual has consented. Central Coast Montessori’s primary uses of personal information include, but are not limited to: Providing education, student support, extra-curricular and health services Satisfying our legal obligations including our duty of care and child safety and wellbeing obligations Sharing School information with parents/guardians Marketing, promotional and fundraising activities Supporting the activities of school associations Supporting the activities of the Central Coast Montessori Foundation Supporting community-based causes and activities, charities and other causes in connection with the School’s events or activities Helping us to improve our day-to-day operations including training our staff Systems development; developing new programs and services; undertaking planning research and statistical analysis School administration including for insurance purposes Employment of staff Engagement of volunteers. We will only use or disclose sensitive information for a secondary purpose if an individual would reasonably expect us to use or disclose the information and the secondary purpose is directly related to the primary purpose. We may share personal information with related bodies corporate, but only if necessary, for us to provide our services. Storage and Security of Personal Information Central Coast Montessori stores personal information in a variety of locations including, but not limited to: Local servers Remote servers Hard copy files Personal devices, including laptop computers Third-party app and management system providers such as Transparent Classroom, OWNA, OWNA HQ, accounting software MYOB and OneSpot/Seabird Apps Third-party storage providers such as cloud storage facilities Central Coast Montessori may disclose personal information about an individual to overseas recipients, for instance, when storing personal information with technology service providers which are situated outside Australia or to facilitate a school transfer. The countries in which these overseas recipients are likely to be located include the United States of America. Central Coast Montessori takes all reasonable steps to protect the personal information we hold from misuse, loss, interference, unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. These steps include, but are not limited to: Restricting access and user privilege of information by staff depending on their role and responsibilities Educating staff and students on protection of personal passwords Ensuring hard copy files are stored in lockable filing cabinets in lockable rooms. Staff access is subject to user privilege Implementing security measures around the School buildings and grounds Ensuring our IT and cyber security systems, policies and procedures are implemented and current Monitoring staff compliance with internal policies and procedures when handling personal information Undertaking due diligence with respect to third-party service providers who may have access to personal information, including customer identification providers and cloud service providers, to ensure as far as practicable that they are compliant with the APPs or a similar privacy regime The destruction, deletion, or de-identification of personal information we hold that is no longer needed or required to be retained by any other laws. Cross-sharing of Information Central Coast Montessori operates both a Preschool and Primary campus under two entities. To facilitate smooth transitions for students moving from Preschool to Primary, it may be necessary to cross-share certain student and family particulars between the two campuses. This sharing of information will be conducted in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles, ensuring that personal information is managed securely and respectfully. We are committed to protecting the privacy of our students and families and will only use or disclose information for the purposes of enhancing educational outcomes and ensuring a seamless transition experience. Responding to Data Breaches Central Coast Montessori maintains procedures for responding to data breaches, including initial containment, formal investigation, and the formation of a data breach response team. If we have reasonable grounds to believe that a data breach has occurred which is likely to result in serious harm to any individual, Central Coast Montessori will: Enact procedures to contain and investigate the data breach Attempt to notify the affected and/or at-risk individuals directly or, if it is not possible to notify individuals directly, publish a statement on our website and through appropriate public channels, and Provide a statement to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) including details of the breach. Disclosure of Personal Information Personal information is used for the purposes for which it was given to Central Coast Montessori, or for purposes which are directly related to one or more of our functions or activities. Personal information may be disclosed to government agencies, other parents, other schools, employees, recipients of School publications, visiting teachers, counsellors and coaches, our service providers, agents, contractors, business partners, related entities, and other recipients from time to time, if the individual: has given consent; or would reasonably expect the personal information to be disclosed in that manner. Central Coast Montessori may disclose personal information without consent or in a manner that an individual would reasonably expect if: we are required to do so by law the disclosure will lessen or prevent a serious threat to the life, health or safety of an individual or to public safety disclosure is reasonably necessary for a law enforcement-related activity another permitted general situation applies another permitted health situation exists. Personal Information of Students The Privacy Act does not differentiate between adults and children and does not specify an age after which individuals can make their own decisions with respect to their personal information. At Central Coast Montessori, we take a ‘common-sense’ approach to dealing with a student’s personal information and generally will refer any requests for personal information to a student’s parents/carers. We will treat notices provided to parents/carers as notices provided to students, and we will treat consents provided by parents/carers as consents provided by a student. In seeking to respect the rights of children under the Privacy Act and recognising that in certain circumstances (especially when dealing with older students and when dealing with sensitive information), it will be appropriate to seek and obtain consent directly from students. We also acknowledge that there may be occasions where a student may give or withhold consent with respect to the use of their personal information independently from their parents/carers. There may also be occasions where parents/carers are denied access to information with respect to their children, because providing such information would have an unreasonable impact on the privacy of others, or result in a breach of the School’s duty of care to the student. Quality of Personal Information We take all reasonable steps to ensure the personal information we hold, use, and disclose is accurate, complete, and up-to-date, including at the time of using or disclosing the information. If Central Coast Montessori becomes aware that the personal information is incorrect or out of date, we will take reasonable steps to rectify the incorrect or out-of-date information. Access and Correction of Personal Information You may submit a request to Central Coast Montessori to access the personal information we hold or request that we change or update the personal information. Upon receiving such a request, we will take steps to verify your identity before granting access or correcting the information. If we reject the request, you will be notified accordingly. Where appropriate, we will provide the reason/s for our decision. Complaints Central Coast Montessori takes all complaints seriously. Privacy complaints can be made to the Privacy Officer and will be handled in accordance with our Complaints Policy and Procedures. How to contact us Central Coast Montessori can be contacted about this Privacy Policy or about personal information generally, by: Email: privacyofficer@ccm.nsw.edu.au Mail: Privacy Officer, Central Coast Montessori 10-12 Debra Anne Drive, BATEAU BAY NSW 2260 Changes to our privacy and information handling practices This Privacy Policy is subject to change at any time. Please check our Privacy Policy on our website regularly for chanes. DOWNLOAD PDF VERSION

Central Coast Montessori is an independent, not-for-profit school governed by a highly skilled volunteer Board, ensuring strong leadership, accountability, and educational excellence. discover more CAREERS VISION, MISSION & VALUES Home / Governance / Governance MEET THE CENTRAL COAST MONTESSORI BOARD Central Coast Montessori Primary is a company limited by guarantee, and its members form the Central Coast Montessori Board of Directors. Central Coast Montessori is a not-for-profit organisation. Its accounts are independently audited. About the Board of Directors The Board of Directors provides the overall governance of Central Coast Montessori, including oversight of strategic, policy, corporate, and financial matters. The Board delegates to the Principal the responsibility for the day-to-day management and operation of the School and its educational activities, in accordance with the School’s strategic plan, Montessori principles and values, and policies approved by the Board of Directors. The Principal advises the Board on educational policies and holds primary responsibility for all matters relating to students, staff, and the teaching, interpretation, and application of the Montessori philosophy and method. Members of the School Board are experienced professionals from diverse fields, bringing a broad range of expertise to oversee the governance of Central Coast Montessori. The skill sets of our Board members include corporate governance, education policy, marketing, public relations, human resources, finance, property, and risk management. Service on the Board is undertaken voluntarily, in accordance with legislative requirements. Currently, the Board consists of: ANNUAL REPORT Dimitri Nicolaou Principal Brad Twynham Director Dean Roller Director Rebecca Butler Director Alan Stevens Director