Our biannual magazine, The Coddiewompler, is a thoughtful celebration of Montessori life—bringing together voices, stories, and moments that define our vibrant learning community. Home / The Coddiewompler / The Coddiewompler BI-ANNUAL PUBLICATION The Coddiewompler is Central Coast Montessori’s biannual magazine — a thoughtful collection of reflections, stories, and snapshots from across our learning community. Each edition brings together the voices of children, guides, and families, offering insight into Montessori education in practice and celebrating the shared experiences that make our community unique. Current Issue PAST ISSUES Past Issues PAST ISSUES Subscribe to our mailing list First name* Last name* Email* SUBSCRIBE

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.

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?

Discover how a Montessori beginning has shaped innovators, creators and leaders worldwide. Not a celebration of fame, but of authentic learning. Home / A Legacy of Learners / Connected by Montessori WHEN CHILDREN LEARN TO LEAD THIER OWN LEARNING, THE WORLD NOTICES At Central Coast Montessori, we focus on each child’s unique path. Yet it is inspiring to know that the Montessori approach has quietly shaped people who have gone on to contribute in many ways across the world. This page is not about fame. It is simply a reminder that when children are trusted, respected and given the freedom to explore deeply, they develop the qualities that support a life of purpose. The individuals below offer a glimpse into how a Montessori beginning can nurture curiosity, independence and a love of learning. What these paths show us: Independence Montessori environments give children time and space to follow their interests, develop confidence and take initiative. This independence becomes a lifelong habit. Curiosity and depth Rather than being rushed from topic to topic, children explore concepts through hands-on materials and real experiences. This nurtures depth, focus and genuine understanding. Community and collaboration Mixed-age classrooms cultivate responsibility, empathy and leadership. Children learn to support one another and to value their part in a community. A love of learning The Montessori approach lays foundations for learning that continues far beyond childhood. It encourages adaptability, creativity and a mindset that welcomes challenge. At Central Coast Montessori, these principles shape every day. Whether in the classroom, the garden or during project work, children are invited to think broadly, explore boldly and grow into themselves with integrity. See how your child might follow their own path We invite you to visit our learning community and experience the quiet, powerful difference of Montessori education. Montessori-Educated Alumni A selection of individuals from around the world who experienced Montessori or Montessori-style education in their early years. Anne Frank – Writer Gabriel García Márquez – Nobel Prize-winning author Julia Child – Chef and author Taylor Swift – Singer and songwriter Helen Hunt – Actor and director Dakota Fanning – Actor Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis – Former First Lady of the United States Katherine Graham – Publisher, The Washington Post Andrew Lloyd Webber – Composer Yo-Yo Ma – Cellist Joshua Bell – Violinist David Blaine – Performance artist Thomas Pynchon – Novelist Prince William – Montessori preschool Prince Harry – Montessori preschool Princess Charlotte of Wales – Montessori preschool Princess Beatrice of York – Montessori nursery Larry Page – Co-founder of Google Sergey Brin – Co-founder of Google Jeff Bezos – Founder of Amazon Samuel Altman – CEO, OpenAI Jimmy Wales – Co-founder of Wikipedia Will Wright – Creator of The Sims Peter Drucker – Management theorist Katherine Kirk – Australian professional golfer Courtney Barnett – Musician and songwriter Dr Susan Feez – Linguist and academic Kathy Graham – Early childhood leader Eamon Sullivan – Olympic swimmer Miranda Tapsell – Actor Naomi Watts – Actor Tim Minchin – Musician and actor * Note: The individuals featured here attended Montessori or Montessori-style educational settings. Their inclusion is intended to illustrate the range of possibilities that child-led learning can support. Every child’s path is unique. Elon Musk/Ad Astra School: Some media outlets have referred to Elon Musk’s Ad Astra preschool as a 'Montessori preschool', though the more accurate description is Montessori-inspired, STEM-focused private education. The school notes that it incorporates Montessori methods and employs Montessori-trained educators, while operating outside the traditional Montessori model. Elon, if you ever read this, we would genuinely welcome a conversation about education and innovation. Montessori has always championed curiosity, independence and forward-thinking learning, and we would love to collaborate or exchange ideas. Where to from here? The Early Years Journey Lets Go

Central Coast Montessori Secondary College—an interconnected model where adolescents learn through collaboration, community, and meaningful work. Preparing young people for adulthood. Now taking Expressions of Interest for Years 7 & 8 (2027). Home / Secondary / Expressions of Interest ADOLESCENT COMMUNITY ‘Above all, it is the education of adolescents that is important, because adolescence is the time when the child enters on the state of adulthood and becomes a member of society. ~ Maria Montessori Dr. Montessori's vision for education is not only innovative and revolutionary but it is more relevant and necessary now than ever. In a fast paced, ever-changing world where adaptability, independence, meaningful contribution, connection, collaboration and a sense of self are so important. It is no surprise that her approach to the adolescent years (high school) continues to look squarely at both the developmental needs of the human being of this age along with the role they play in society as the up and coming leaders of our world. Come, be part of creating the first Montessori High School in this region and experience a 'school of experience in the true elements of social life'. Our students will develop skills while working closely with the land within a dynamic interconnected and collaborative social construct as they prepare for adulthood. SUBMIT YOUR EOI NOW

Our Primary Curriculum guides children through Montessori's core areas within the framework of NESA outcomes—fostering independent, socially aware, and self-motivated learners. Education for Life Primary education at Central Coast Montessori addresses every key developmental stage within supportive learning environments that cater to the social, emotional, and educational needsof pre-adolescents. Our program cultivates self-driven and independent learners with a strong work ethic, ensuring they become well-rounded young citizens with a passion for learning and the skills needed for a successful future. discover more PRIMARY YEARS GALLERY APPLYING TO CCM Home / Primary Curriculum / Primary Curriculum FROM GUIDED TO INDEPENDENT LEARNING Our Curriculum Our early Primary program builds on the formative work of the Early Years, further shaping attitudes to learning and helping students understand, master and apply core skills and concepts. While in later Primary we cater to the changing needs of students in their formative years, helping with the transition from primary school to secondary school while students continue to develop their knowledge and skills through a varied curriculum. Flexibility Montessori education is holistic and child-centred, designed around the developmental stages of the child. It focuses on hands-on learning, self-directed activity, and collaborative exploration across core areas like Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, and Cultural Studies. Flexibility is a hallmark of the Montessori approach, allowing children to follow their interests and progress at their own pace while acquiring necessary and develpmentally appropriate skills. Lessons, or 'presentations,' are introduced individually or in small groups when the child is ready. This personalised approach fosters intrinsic motivation, critical thinking, and a love of learning while developing social and emotional skills NESA Curriculum The NESA curriculum governs education in New South Wales. It is divided into key learning areas (KLA's) such as English, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE), Creative Arts, and Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education (PDHPE). NESA outlines specific learning outcomes to be achieved by set stages (e.g., Stages 1–6) with defined year-level expectations. Our Curriculum Our Lower Primary program builds on the formative work of the Early Years, further shaping attitudes to learning and helping students understand, master and apply core skills and concepts. While in Upper Primary we cater to the changing needs of students in their formative years, helping with the transition from primary school to secondary while students continue to develop their knowledge and skills through a varied curriculum. Aligning Montessori and NESA Despite their differences in implementation, the Montessori and NESA curricula can complement one another: Literacy and Numeracy: Montessori materials, such as bead chains or phonetic language tools, align naturally with NESA’s numeracy and literacy outcomes. Cultural Studies and HSIE: Montessori’s exploration of history, geography, and biology integrates well with NESA’s HSIE curriculum. Inquiry-Based Learning: Both frameworks emphasise hands-on, inquiry-based learning, particularly in science and technology. How They Work Together Individualised Learning: Montessori’s self-paced approach ensures children meet NESA outcomes at their own speed while achieving developmental milestones. Comprehensive Development: While NESA focuses on academic standards, Montessori expands this with emotional, social, and practical life skills. Integrated Outcomes: Guides in Montessori schools ensure state-mandated literacy, numeracy, and other outcomes are seamlessly embedded into Montessori activities. By blending Montessori’s child-centred philosophy with NESA’s academic guidelines, CCM offers a rich educational experience that nurtures well-rounded, capable learners ready for further education and life.

Discover Central Coast Montessori’s unique 8-term year. Our ‘Rhythm Re-imagined’ calendar balances learning with regular breaks, supporting wellbeing, focus, and joy in learning. Home / Term Dates / Term Dates RHYTHM RE-IMAGINED Plan your year with term dates and all other important events throughout the year, including public holidays and student-free days. Unlike the traditional four-term system, Central Coast Montessori’s innovative Primary calendar, ‘Rhythm Re-imagined,’ features shorter terms punctuated by regular breaks. This structure is proving remarkably effective, fostering a more balanced learning experience that supports students’ well-being and ability to learn and enjoy learning. The shorter terms maintain high levels of engagement and energy, while the frequent breaks provide crucial opportunities for rest and reflection, leading to improved focus and reduced stress. 2025 Term 7 13 Oct Primary Resumes 14 Nov Primary Rest & Reflection Break Term 8 24 Nov Primary Resumes Chrysalis Classes Resume 06 Dec Sakura Classes Conclude (Block 4) 18 Dec Primary Concludes (Last Day/Honouring the Graduates) 24 Dec Preschool Closes (Last Day) 2026 Term 1 21 Jan Preschool Commences 26 Jan Australia Day Public Holiday 02 Feb Primary Commences 07 Feb Sakura Commences 2 Mar Primary Rest & Reflection Break Term 2 09 Mar Primary Resumes 03 Apr Good Friday Public Holiday 06 Apr Easter Monday Public Holiday 13 Apr Primary Rest & Reflection Break 14 Mar Last Sakura Class (Block 1) Term 3 20 Apr Primary Student Free Day 21 Apr Primary Resumes 25 Apr ANZAC Day Public Holiday 02 May Sakura Resumes (Block 2) 25 May Primary Rest & Reflection Break Term 4 01 Jun Primary Resumes 05 Jun Student Free Day/Staff Professional Development Conference 08 Jun Kings Birthday Public Holiday 20 Jun Last Sakura Class (Block 2) 06 Jul Primary Rest & Reflection Break Term 5 20 Jul Primary Student Free Day 21 Jul Primary Resumes 01 Aug Sakura Resumes (Block 3) 24 Aug Primary Rest & Reflection Break Term 6 31 Aug Primary Resumes 05 Sep Last Sakura Class (Block 3) 05 Oct Labour Day Public Holiday 06 Oct Primary Rest & Reflection Term 7 12 Oct Primary Student Free Day 13 Oct Primary Resumes 24 Oct Sakura Resumes (Block 4) 16 Nov Primary Rest & Reflection Break Term 8 23 Nov Primary Resumes 28 Nov Last Sakura Class (Block 4) 18 Dec Primary Student Free Day 21 Dec Primary Rest & Reflection Break 24 Dec Preschool Closed

Curious if Montessori is right for your child and family? Explore key principles, benefits, and perspectives to help you decide with confidence. Home / Recommended Reading & Resources / Recommended Reading & Resources UNDERSTANDING MONTESSORI If you’d like to explore Montessori further before your visit, here are some excellent starting points: Maria Montessori Cosmic Vision, Cosmic Plan and Cosmic Education - Camillo Grazzini Trevor Eissler - Montessori Madness Ted Talk- Montessori = creativity unleashed - Judi Bauerlein Montessori School Education www.montessori.org.au http://aidtolife.org/ www.howwemontessori.com www.themontessorinotebook.com discover more BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT MONTESSORI FAQ

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 / 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.

Primary Years Gallery Home / The Primary Years Gallery / AN ENVIRONMENT THAT SUPPORTS & GUIDES THE DEVELOPMENT OF EACH INDIVIDUAL, OFFERING A BALANCED INTERGRATION OF FREEDOM & RESPONSIBILITY