Browse our Early Years Gallery and discover the vibrant moments of Montessori learning—children engaging, exploring, and growing in a thoughtfully prepared environment. Home / The Early Years Gallery / Early Years Gallery EDUCATION FOR LIFE A nurturing environment that cultivates independence, empowering children to explore and choose while laying the foundation for lifelong learning.

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

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? Can I book a tour? Do I need to submit an application? What are the fees? 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? Submit a New Question Name* Email* Message* Submit Start the Journey ENQUIRE NOW BOOK A TOUR APPLY NOW

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

Upper Primary (ages 9–12): an academic-rich, collaborative Montessori environment where abstract understanding, moral awareness, and critical, imaginative thinking flourish. Home / Upper Primary / Upper Primary FOSTERING CURIOSITY & UNDERSTANDING Exploring Montessori for 9-12 Year Olds As children transition into the Montessori primary program for ages 9 to 12, they exhibit a remarkable blend of curiosity, imagination, and a strong moral and social awareness. This age group is characterised by their inquisitive nature and an innate desire for exploration. As they complete the first cycle of primary education, many fundamental skills are becoming more fluent and integrated. The second cycle is one of consolidation, further exploration, and application, greatly broadening their understanding of the world around them. In an environment centred around research and collaborative learning, the children often work in small groups on various projects that ignite their imagination and stimulate their intellect. Guided by trained Montessori educators, these lessons encourage children to engage in activities that foster their reasoning skills and teach them essential life skills. The Montessori approach intentionally guides children through a process that moves from the concrete and tangible to the abstract, commencing in their early years and continuing throughout their education. This didactic process supports true understanding rather than rote memorisation, allowing children to internalise knowledge deeply. From this foundation, they can innovate and apply what they have learned if they choose to do so. Having typically honed their reading and self-expression skills during the lower primary years, the senior primary child is now eager to delve into cultural knowledge, seeking a deeper understanding of both the natural world and human-made environments. At this stage, they demonstrate enhanced abilities for abstract thought and reasoning, along with a growing physical strength that empowers them to engage with the world more fully. Furthermore, their focus on peer relationships intensifies, coinciding with an increasing interest in questions of morality and the conscious organisation of community through established rules and roles. Driven by a quest to comprehend the universe and their place within it, these children possess an insatiable appetite for cultural exploration. Their studies encompass a wide range of subjects, including geography, biology, history, language, mathematics, science, music, and art. Learning is enriched through excursions beyond the classroom, utilising community resources such as libraries, observatories, botanical gardens, science centres, factories, and hospitals. This holistic approach not only fosters a deep sense of connection to humanity but also nurtures their inherent desire to contribute positively to the world around them.

The Central Coast Montessori Early Years Curriculum fosters curiosity, problem-solving, communication, and wellbeing, delivering outcomes that exceed NQS and EYLF standards. Home / The Early Years Curriculum / Preschool Curriculum & National Quality Standards EXCEEDING OUTCOMES THROUGH A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH Exceeding National Quality Standards Our Early Learning program and activities are informed by critical reflection that guides best practice and is embedded in all aspects of education at Central Coast Montessori. Our Preschool exceeds National Quality Standards, as set by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority . Early Years Learning Framework We deliver an authentic Montessori curriculum that compliments the Australian Government's National Quality Framework (NQF), including the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) outcomes. Both approaches share the goal of fostering holistic child development. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) offers guidance for educators to collaborate with families in recognising children's strengths and interests, applying effective teaching strategies, and facilitating a smooth transition to primary school. It emphasises play-based learning approaches that are guided by children's interests. The EYLF framework centres on five key learning outcomes. The Montessori Curriculum is a comprehensive and child-centred framework that fosters holistic development across cognitive, physical, social, and emotional aspects of a child’s development. The Montessori program consists of five key curriculum areas Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural Studies, each tailored to cultivate specific aspects of a child’s growth and understanding. Montessori education nurtures and accommodates complete academic foundations. EYLF Outcomes & Montessori Links: Children have a strong sense of identity: T he Montessori framework allows children the freedom, independence, and choice necessary to cultivate a strong sense of self. Children are connected with and contribute to their world: Montessori Education provides real-world skills and social skills that enable children to become great contributors to society. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing: Montessori Education is equally focused on developing children’s sense of wellbeing. Children are confident and involved learners: The Prepared Environment is crafted to enable freedom of movement and choice from an early age. Children are effective communicators: Montessori learning supports the development of effective communication skills, grace and courtesy, literacy, and social abilities. Holistic Development We focus on nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially. This complements Outcome 1, which highlights fostering a strong sense of identity. Hands-on, self-directed activities in Practical Life and Sensorial areas help children build confidence, independence, and a sense of self from an early age. Community and Belonging Both frameworks emphasise belonging and positive relationships (Outcome 2). Mixed-age Montessori classrooms create a community where younger children learn from peers and older children develop leadership skills. This fosters collaboration, respect, and connection to the world around them. Lifelong Learning Our self-directed activities nurture curiosity and intrinsic motivation, aligning with Outcome 4: children as confident and involved learners. Freedom to explore their interests deeply engages children, encouraging a love of learning. Communication Skills Language development is integral to our early years curriculum - paralleling Outcome 5: effective communication. Through storytelling, reading, writing, and interactive materials, children enhance their vocabulary and communication abilities at their own pace. Respect for the Environment Montessori’s emphasis on caring for the environment supports Outcome 2: social responsibility. Activities like gardening and maintaining the classroom teach respect for nature and shared spaces, fostering environmental awareness and responsibility. Functional Independence Montessori in the early years focuses on fostering the acqusition of functional and physical independence. 'Help me to do it for myself' is the catch cry for these young learners as they are guided to develop their abilities/skills to navigate and engage with the world and to begin to become aware of their ability to satisfy their own basic needs. Thus instilling a deep sense of confidence, competence and belonging. Through Montessori Practical Life activities children develop the following skills that link to the EYLF: Demonstrate increasing awareness of the needs and rights of others Are open to new challenges and taking considered risks Approach new safe situations with confidence Begin to initiate negotiating and sharing behaviours Make choices and decisions Practical Life We focus on nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially. This complements Outcome 1, which highlights fostering a strong sense of identity. Hands-on, self-directed activities in Practical Life and Sensorial areas help children build confidence, independence, and a sense of self from an early age. Holistic Development Through Montessori Sensorial activities children develop the following skills that link to the EYLF: Uses and names a range of tools, resources and techniques in investigations Uses his/her senses to explore natural and built environments and materials Explores the purpose and function of a range of tools Manipulates and experiments with resources to investigate, take apart, assemble, invent and construct Utilises the senses to gain information when exploring the world around them Sensorial Through Montessori Language activities children develop the following skills that link to the EYLF: Attempts to ‘read’ and shares texts for personal purposes Explores texts from a range of different perspectives Actively uses, engages with, and shares their enjoyment of language Investigates words and word meanings Makes connections between text and their own experiences and ideas Identifies some elements of books and conventional texts Recognises components of text, e.g. letters, words, sentence, pictures, page, title, author, illustrator Recognises own written name Language Through Montessori Mathematics activities children develop the following skills that link to the EYLF: Engage in simple investigations and explorations Apply a wide range of thinking strategies to solve problems Persist when faced with challenges and when first attempts are not successful Uses reflective thinking to consider why things happen and what can be learned Develops investigative skills through instructive play and experiential learning Mathematics Care of Environment Through Care of the Environment children develop the following skills that link to the EYLF: Considers the importance of picking up own rubbish Demonstrates increasing knowledge of, and respect for natural and constructed environments Explores relationships with other living and non-living things and observe, notice and respond to change Develops an awareness of the impact of human activity on environments and the interdependence of living things Demonstrates respect for plants, animals, places Takes responsibility for own actions Through Care of Self and Others children develop the following skills that link to the EYLF: Engages in and contributes to shared play experiences Expresses a range of emotions, thoughts and views constructively Displays awareness and respect of others’ perspectives Reflects on their actions and considers consequences for others Expresses empathy for others Recognises own and others emotions Shows interest in other children and being part of a group Care of Self and Others Children develop holistically with an equal focus on academics and overall wellbeing Children develop independence, concentration, and real-life skills Children express a range of emotions, reflect on their actions, and demonstrate awareness of others perspectives Children develop investigative skills, ask questions, and apply a range of thinking strategies to problem-solve Children use their senses to explore, investigate, and create Children participate in physical activities and follow the rules of the games Children show self-confidence and interact well with others Children respond to challenges and demonstrates problem-solving skills Children demonstrate care for the environment and an interest in sustainability Montessori Learning Outcomes There are five key outcomes of the EYLF: Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of well-being Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators EYLF Learning Outcomes

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.

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

Discover Montessori in action—book your visit today and explore our unique learning community. Discovery Session DISCOVER WHAT IS POSSIBLE Home / Discovery Session / Begin your family’s journey with Central Coast Montessori. Discovery Session Dates The below list shows upcoming dates, click to register: Tue, 30 Sep, 7:30pm - 8:30pm AEST About the Discovery Session Join our 1-hour online Discovery Session to explore the Montessori philosophy and discover how Central Coast Montessori approaches education. This session offers prospective families the chance to gain deeper insights into our learning environments, the Montessori method, and the ways we support children and families on their educational journey. To attend, please first submit an enquiry and our admissions team will provide you with a registration access code. We ask all families to attend a Discovery Session and attend a campus tour before proceeding with an application to enrol. These steps ensure you have a thorough understanding of Montessori education and what makes our learning community unique.

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 rewarding careers at Central Coast Montessori. Be part of a skilled team dedicated to high-quality Montessori education. Work you can live! Home / Careers / Working at Central Coast Montessori WORK YOU CAN LIVE The Central Coast Montessori team is for you if: You are a qualified Montessori Guide and your life demonstrates lifelong learning. You are wanting to contribute to a movement that transforms education for the better. You live Montessori, embracing grace and courtesy, respect for all individuals, and an appreciation of interconnectedness, along with a deep commitment to nurturing ourselves, our community, and our environment. You understand that education extends beyond the classroom, and that demonstrating respect and kindness is essential for creating a harmonious learning community. You have the energy and enthusiam to make a meaningful impact that will last for generations to come. You are passionate about nurturing the individual learning journey of each child and strive to connect with students to make their learning experience relevant and real. We are always on the lookout for passionate and skilled individuals who share our commitment to Montessori principles and values. If you are interested in joining our team, we invite you to explore our current job openings and learn more about the rewarding opportunities that await you. Current Opportunities Montessori Lead Guide 6-9 Cycle 2 Permanent Full Time Location: Bateau Bay, NSW Applications close 30th September 2025 Expression of Interest — Careers Central Coast Montessori is always interested in hearing from passionate educators and support staff who share our commitment to authentic Montessori practice and to fostering independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. As the first and only genuine Montessori learning community on the NSW Central Coast, we provide programs from early childhood through the primary years, with a secondary program in development. Our team is dedicated, collaborative, and guided by Montessori’s vision of education for life. If you are interested in joining us — now or in the future — we encourage you to submit your details below. When opportunities arise, we will be in touch. First name* Last name* Email* Phone Role(s) of Interest Montessori Guide / Teacher Early Childhood Educator Early Childhood Educator Trainee Assistant / Support Staff Administration / Operations Prac / Work Experience Other (please specify) Experience Level Upload CV / Resume Upload File Tell us a little about yourself and why you’d like to work with us SEND EXPRESSION OF INTEREST Central Coast Montessori is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with CCM is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability. Central Coast Montessori is committed to a Child Safe environment, and we have extensive recruitment and screening processes in place. All interested applicants are encouraged to read and familiarise themselves with Central Coast Montessori's Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy located on the website.