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

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. 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?

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

Find answers to common questions about applying to enrol at Central Coast Montessori, including fees, tours, childcare subsidy (CCS), immunisation, and more. Home / Admissions FAQ / Admissions FAQ ANSWERS TO THE MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS Welcome to our Admissions FAQ. Here you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions about the enrolment process, eligibility, and requirements. If you have a question that’s not covered here, please feel free to get in touch —or submit your own question below. Enrolment Preschool Primary Secondary 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. What is the enrolment process? Our enrolment process is designed to be thoughtful, informative, and centred around ensuring the best fit for your family. You’ll find a clear, step‑by‑step guide here: https://www.ccm.nsw.edu.au/enrolment-process 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. Submit a New Question Name* Email* Message* Submit Start the Journey ENQUIRE NOW BOOK A TOUR APPLY NOW

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 fees are an investment in your child’s future. Our Preschool and Primary programs provide high-quality Montessori education that nurtures independence, confidence, and lifelong learning. Home / Investment / Investment FEES & PAYMENTS 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. We work diligently to ensure that our fees align with the high-quality education and engaging environments we offer, while also remaining competitive with similar offerings. Additionally, we warmly welcome any extra contributions from families who are able to provide them, as these resources enhance our community and opportunities for all students. Admission Fees Application for Enrolment Primary Enrolment Fee Early Years/Preschool Enrolment Bond $250 per new student ($150 siblings) $1,000 per child $500 per child Tuition Cycle/Year Primary Secondary (2028) 2026 instalment payment due dates are on 23 January, 17 April, 17 July, 9 October. Annual Investment per Child $8,800 $11,300 Quartely Instalments $2,200 $2,825 Fortnightly $352 $435 Preschool and Early Years Programs Parent & Child (0-3 Years Program) Per Session $35 (billed termly) Per Session $35 (billed termly) Parent & Child (0-3 Years Saturday Prep Program) ELC Program (3-6 Years Preschool Program) 48 weeks per year (3 year program) Daily $125.28 (full day rate) Central Coast Montessori offers an ‘Approved’ Preschool Program. As such, families may be eligible for the Childcare Subsidy. To find out more about eligibility, please contact the Department of Human Services . The Preschool operates five days a week and 48 weeks of the year. * For further details about the Early Years investment, please see the link below. Investment Our fees and charges are reviewed and set annually. Below, you will find our detailed investment schedule's along with the Enrolment Conditions. 2026 early years investment details 2026 primary investment details enrolment conditions discover more primary years gallery applying to CCM Sibling Discounts Sibling discounts are offered to Primary and Secondary enrolments to help support our families where appropriate. We will reduce the Tuition Fee payable for full-time students attending Central Coast Montessori concurrently where they are siblings. For step-siblings to be eligible, they must live predominantly at the same address. The applicable allowances are: No discount for the oldest child 10% of tuition fees for the second sibling 25% of tuition fees for the third and fourth or subsequent siblings Community Contribution Levy The Community Contribution Levy requires each family to volunteer 3 hours per term of their time and/or services to the school. CCM will provide a wide variety of opportunities for families to participate in/contribute to community life. Working Bees/Cultural Day/Material Making/Open Days/Projects/Community Pods – Events/Full Fridge/Gardening/Co-Op etc. Facilitating Communality: (3 hrs p/term – 24 hrs p/year) Paying fees and charges Make a Payment We aim to make it as easy as possible to pay fees and other costs, and offer a range of options for families: Australia Post BPay Electronic Funds Transfer Credit Card Over the phone Online make a payment * 2027 Investment Details - Available Wednesday, 1 October 2026 Fees are reviewed, taking into account that Central Coast Montessori operates as a non-profit organisation. Factors considered include compliance with government funding and regulatory requirements, the organisation’s financial needs, application and enrolment levels, and other relevant considerations.

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 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.

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 Bry O'Neill Director Dean Roller Director Rebecca Butler Director Alan Stevens Director

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. 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

A leading independent school, Central Coast Montessori is the first and only authentic Montessori on the NSW Central Coast, providing Preschool and Primary programs that deliver high-quality education while fostering independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Discover more welcome Central Coast Montessori provides a distinctly enriching educational experience. By emphasising independence, adaptation and valorisation. Children are encouraged to inquire boldly, imagine freely, experience broadly and create responsibly so they can grow to their fullest potential and co-shape a sustainable society. EDUCATION RE-IMAGINED From the Principal Why Central Coast Montessori Dr Maria Montessori answered that call decades ago and people are still only realising the depth, extent and significance of her work today. Change is constant in most areas, yet schools and education systems seem to remain stagnant. How could that be? It's no secret education needed to change a long time ago . . . THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT Education for life To thrive in any iteration of a world that is changing exponentially, we need education to inspire students to know learning as the pathway towards a rich, aware and empowered life. A vantage point from which they can adapt, innovate, find purpose and add value as future leaders. Education and schooling are not the same, a revolution in education is building and Central Coast Montessori is at the forefront. We are strong proponents of the notion that the bridge connecting aspiration and achievement is undoubtedly work, and that both self-creation and meaningful social contribution come from ones capacity to relish opportunity, see possibility, recognise potential, value self-development and grow through adversity. montessori faq Is Montessori for you? OUR LEARNING COMMUNITY It takes a village What were once schools must now arrive at the distinct realisation that they are, in fact, far more. They are communities or villages of learning, dynamic information exchanges, living, breathing, interconnected ecosystems that must be purposeful, contextual, and experiential, holding real-life meaning the experience of both developmentally appropriate opportunity, struggle and discomfort. Growing familiarity with organic life processes experienced universally provides a solid platform from which to think critically, pivot fluidly to exist in any world—not with certainty of outcome but cognisance of both innate capacity and ability to upskill. Vision, Mission & Values Is Montessori for you? Go birth—3 years parent & child 0 3—6 years preschool Go 6—12 years primary What our community say ‘Choosing Montessori Preschool has been one of the best decisions we made as a family for my kids.’ GLORIA PARENT 'Each guide is deeply caring and wholeheartedly devoted to nurturing every child's growth and individuality. Central Coast Montessori Preschool has been instrumental in shaping our children’s early years, and we feel so fortunate to have been part of this extraordinary community.’ KAY PARENT 'I benefited from the Montessori education which in some ways gives the students a lot more freedom to do things at their own pace, to discover… Some of the credit for the willingness to go on your own interests, you can tie that back to that Montessori education.’ SERGEY BRIN CO-FOUNDER GOOGLE 'Our experience over the past six years has been nothing short of exceptional. The guides work tirelessly with passion and dedication, fostering curiosity, independence and kindness in every child . . .’ DAN PARENT 'We both went to Montessori school, and I think it was part of that training . . . of being self-motivated, questioning what’s going on in the world, doing things a little bit different.’ LARRY PAGE CEO, CO-FOUNDER OF GOOGLE ‘Central Coast Montessori transformed my child into a more thoughtful, self-regulating learner — best decision I’ve made for her.’ LIVIA PARENT 'I do not believe there is a method better than Montessori for making children sensitive to the beauties of the world and awakening their curiosity regarding the secrets of life…' GABRIEL MARQUEZ NOBEL PRIZE RECIPIENT give your child the gift of a montessori education A closer look read the blog Subscribe to our mailing list First name* Last name* Email* SUBSCRIBE