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  • Parent & Child Ages 0-3 | Central Coast Montessori

    Join our Parent-Child Classes for 0–3-year-olds at Central Coast Montessori, where families explore the Montessori prepared environment together and build confidence before Preschool. HOME / PARENT & CHILD Parent & Child Classes (Infants 0-3 Years) It begins here! Your infant's rapidly developing mind is eager to explore the world. Our Parent & Child Program offers a nurturing environment where you can gently support your child's curiosity and determination, laying a strong foundation for their future growth and discovery. Home / Parent & Child Ages 0-3 / Parent & Child Classes INFANTS 0-3 YEARS It begins here! Your infant's rapidly developing mind is eager to explore the world. Our Parent & Child Program offers a nurturing environment where you can gently support your child's curiosity and determination,laying a strong foundation for their future growth and discovery. Where it All Begins At Central Coast Montessori, we warmly invite families to join our Parent & Child Program, which is part of our Infant Community for children under three years old. This crucial stage of development allows children to actively engage with their environment, exploring the world through their senses while honing communication skills and fostering independence. During this time, children are particularly sensitive to movement and order, making it a foundational period for their overall growth. Educational Experience for Parents and Infants Our Parent & Child Program offers a unique educational experience for parents and their infants. Joined by qualified guides, parents participate alongside their children, gaining valuable insights and practical strategies to support their child's development during these formative years. Our discussions focus on developing the ability to make unbiased, nonjudgmental observations while preparing oneself and the home to better understand the young child. This program ensures that parents feel equipped to navigate this significant stage, nurturing their child's curiosity and exploration. Transition to Preschool Program (Sakura) Complementing this is our Transition to Preschool (Sakura) Program, designed to ease children into their first independent school experience. This program fosters confidence and cultivates essential skills in a nurturing environment, preparing children for a seamless transition into Preschool when they turn three or show readiness. This collaborative approach not only enhances their child’s growth and development but also strengthens the connection between home and school. ENQUIRE Start the Journey ENQUIRE NOW BOOK A TOUR APPLY NOW

  • Primary Curriculum | Central Coast Montessori

    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.

  • Welcome from the Principal | Central Coast Montessori

    A warm welcome from the Principal of Central Coast Montessori—explore our vision, values, and educational philosophy, with a commitment to community and your child’s growth. Home / Welcome from the Principal / A Warm Welcome! Welcome to Central Coast Montessori, where our guiding principle, Education for Life— inspires everything we do. For going on two decades, our school has provided a nurturing, child-centred learning environment. Guided by the Montessori philosophy of self-directed learning, independence, and respect, we help children recognise their potential, foster their creativity, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Central Coast Montessori’s journey began with a spark of inspiration in the late 1990s. Witnessing the remarkable growth of family members in a Montessori school in Sydney transformed my understanding of what education could be. It wasn’t just about knowledge; it was a gift—an opportunity to nurture the whole human being, cultivating confidence, curiosity, collaboration and capability. This passion led me to immerse myself in Montessori studies in Dublin and Bergamo, learning from its origins in Europe. On returning to Australia, I brought these values to classrooms in Sydney, seeing firsthand how Montessori’s child-centred approach empowers individuals to first adapt and then to thrive. In 2007, we opened Central Coast Montessori Preschool in Wamberal. We expanded in 2017 with a primary school in Bateau Bay, offering a seamless Montessori journey from birth through to Year 6. Looking ahead, our goal is to launch a Montessori adolescent program. Through the creation of a ‘school in the experience of true social life”, extending this rich pedagogy that takes a broad, species view of development and learning into the teenage years, CCM will prepare adolecents for adult life. At Central Coast Montessori, we support children to realise their full potential and in doing so, to make a valueable contribution to society. Through an individualised, contextual approach, learners acquire the independence, develop the skills, and draw on their passion to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Our approach is not just about preparing children for the next stage of schooling, nor the mindless memorisation of facts—it’s about them building an existential tool box from which they can always draw. It is about....preparing them for life. To learn more about Central Coast Montessori and our mindfully prepared, rich, contextual, mixed-age learning environments, join one of our Discovery Sessions . Dimitri Nicolaou Principal discover more VISION, MISSION & VALUES THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT

  • Recommended Reading & Resources | Central Coast Montessori

    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

  • Is Montessori for you? | Central Coast Montessori

    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

  • Term Dates | Central Coast Montessori

    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. 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

  • Annual Report | Central Coast Montessori

    Home / Annual Report / Annual Report TRANSPARENCY & REPORTING Our Annual Report provides key information about Central Coast Montessori, including our operations, programs, student learning and progress, staffing, attendance, community life, finances and future priorities. The report is published each year to meet regulatory requirements and to give families and the wider community a clear overview of the year at CCM. Past Issues PAST ISSUES PAST REPORTS

  • Enrolment Conditions | Central Coast Montessori

    Review our Enrolment Conditions—comprehensive guidance on acceptance, required documentation, fees, and policy details to support a clear and informed process. HOME / ENROLMENT CONDITIONS Central Coast Montessori Enrolment Conditions RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PARENTS/CARERS 1. Central Coast Montessori (CCM) seeks open communication with parents / carers including all information about the student which will allow CCM to make reasonable assessments of the student’s needs. It is essential both at the time of enrolment and at any time during enrolment that parents / carers keep CCM informed about: Any change of family address or contact detail Any changes to emergency contacts details Any changes to personal circumstances or wellbeing of the student 2. CCM policies are readily available on the website or at the admin office by request. By signing this Contract, parents / carers acknowledge their ready access to CCM Policies, and a willingness to support and adhere to those policies. While these are subject to change from time to time, any major changes will be communicated to the community. 3. Parents / Carers are required to support their children to abide by the reasonable behavioural expectations of CCMPS and to comply with the Code of Conduct for Students. 4. Parents / Carers are required to refrain from any conduct themselves that may be against the best interests of students or CCM which may bring it into disrepute. Parents / Carers are required to make any concerns regarding the operation of the school known by following the Complaints and Grievance Handling Procedure. 5. Parents / Carers are required to disclose any medical condition, learning or behavioural difficulty/difference that may help us to create the best learning environment for their child. Non-disclosure will be regarded as a breach in the terms of this Contract and could result, depending on the circumstances, in termination of the Contract between the parties. 6. It is understood that parents / carers are commiting to a 6-year program at CCM and that students will attend for the duration (and or remainder) of their Primary CCMPS education. 7. CCM wishes to work in partnership with Parents / Carers who have chosen to seek Montessori education for their children. It is therefore expected that both parties will work together to promote the philosophical aims and policies of CCM in a spirit of cooperation and respect. 8. Parents / Carers are required to attend Parent / Carer Information and Community Gathering evening’s which are held throughout the year. A minimum of 80% attendance is required by each family, each year with an expectation that both parents / carers will share this responsibility. 9. Parents / Carers are aware that all photos that are able to be accessed/viewed on Transparent Classroom are for private use only and any photos that feature children other than their own are not to be copied, distributed or placed on social media. 10. CCM implements a considered and informative enrolment process including but not limited to, for - New Enrolments – a Discovery Session, The Intentional Guide Seminar, Guided Observation, Classroom Experiences. While it is expected that at least one parent / carer attends each of these, it is compulsory for all parents / carers to attend the Intentional Guide seminar. (At least one must attend prior to enrolment the other/s within 12 months of enrolment) Transitions from CCM – the Welcome to Primary event. It is essential that both parents / carers have attended one event before their child starts transitioning into Primary school. Parents / carers are invited when their child is close to 4.5 years old, and have multiple opportunities to attend. 11. CCM reserves the right to request families to participate in or repeat parent / carer information sessions such as, but not limited to, the Intentional Guide, Classroom observations or home visits if it is identified that this would support a deeper understanding of Montessori Pedagogy and CCM practices. 12. It is understood that following participation in and contribution to the enrolment process, parents / carers will have read, researched and adequately informed themselves such that they take responsibility for making an informed decision as to the educational pathway they have chosen for their family. 13. From time to time, guides may either require or advise parents / carers to seek more specialised support, information and or intervention. We ask that families work side by side with CCM to better understand their child and their learning needs. RESPONSIBILITIES OF CCM 14. CCM will educate each student with due care and skill guided by the pedagogy, principles and practices developed by Maria Montessori. 15. While the development of key skills and the meeting of required outcomes is integral to our approach this does not guarantee a particular level of achievement for each student; each student is also supported and encouraged to pursue their own individual interests and aptitudes. Progress depends greatly on their individual attributes and willingness to work for their own education. 16. If at any point a child’s guide is in any way concerned about their social, emotional, cognitive or physical development, they will bring that to the parents / carers attention. 17. CCM will act in the best interests of the students, guided by our legal educational responsibilities. This may mean we do not always act in accordance with parental / carers preferences. 18. CCM will maintain communication with parents / carers and the Community through our website, Transparent Classroom and Telegram. CCM will offer two comprehensive connection points throughout the school year each culminating in a Parent or Carer/Guide Conference and receipt of a Collaborative Reflection. (Parent / Carer , Guide and Child) 19. CCM will communicate with both parents / carers who have completed the enrolment agreement unless a Court Order directs otherwise. 20. CCM will invest in ongoing professional development of staff to ensure staff remain up-to-date with the latest Montessori practices, educational standards, and regulations. This commitment allows staff to continuously improve their skills, meet the diverse needs of students, and maintain a high-quality, nurturing learning environment. It also encourages reflective practice, fostering a culture of continuous growth and collaboration. STUDENT CONTRIBUTION AND ATTENDANCE 21. Students are expected in their daily attendance and activities to contribute to the Community and its welfare. 22. Students are required to become active members of the Community and are expected to adhere to the behavioural expectations of CCM. 23. In particular students are required to attend camps, to go on excursions and to participate in any other activities which form part of the educational program. 24. Going-out (intentional child-led outings/Primary) are part of the Montessori culture and by enrolling your child at CCM, you agree to your child being able to go on Going-Outs and Excursions without written permission if they are shorter than 3 hour duration. Please see the CCM Going-Out and Excursion Policy and Procedure for more details. 25. CCM expects parents / carers will make every effort to ensure that their child will not be absent from school without explanation or leave of absence being granted by the principal and that the term dates, as advertised by CCM, will be adhered to. The parent / carer has read the Absence Requirements Policy and agrees to adhere to the notification procedure as required. 26. Parents / Carers understand that unexplained or extensive absence from CCM may have educational consequences. Also that CCM must report these scenarios under our mandatory reporting obligation. We are supported through this process by the Department of Education’s legal branch and are able to obtain assistance in these matters from the Australian Independent Schools Education Regulations and Program Implementation Team. COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE OF STUDENTS DURING GOVERNMENT FUNDING CENSUS PERIOD (PRIMARY) 27. Government Funding is allocated to schools annually at Census Period, according to the number of students in attendance at school, AT THE TIMES CENSUS IS TAKEN. While CCMPS is usually open to requests/applications from parents / carers to remove students from school for short (or longer periods of time) for planned holidays, withdrawal during census times will not be approved: a few students temporarily absent at those times can negatively impact vital funding being made available. The census period is: 20 school days prior to and including the first Friday in August. The Census Reference Period for students is the 20 school days leading up to, and including, Census Day. School holidays, public holidays, and weekends are not part of the 20-day Census Reference Period. Pupil-free days within the Reference Period do count towards these 20 days. 28. Therefore, in the best interests of all students at CCMPS, we strongly request that: Parents / Carers do not make requests or decisions to take children out of school during these census periods, for planned trips, holidays or other events and further notify that, Any Applications to the school for an Exemption from Compulsory Schooling during those census time-periods will not be granted except in exceptional circumstances. HEALTH SAFETY AND WELLBEING 29. CCM has a duty of care under law to promote the health and wellbeing of students. 30. CCM is required under mandatory-reporting student-protection legislation to report to State Authorities any conduct (by staff, students, parents / carers, or others) of which it becomes aware that a student from CCMPS has or may be harmed. 31. CCM is legally able to exclude any person, irrespective of whether they are a parent / carer or not, from entering or remaining on school grounds/property or participating in school activities, where CCM reasonably believes it is in the best interests of a child or CCMPS that the person be excluded. 32. In the event of an accident or illness to a student of CCM or while participating in any school or community activity and the parent / carers cannot be contacted, the parent / carers hereby specifically authorise CCM to arrange for all necessary immediate medical treatment and/or hospitalisation and the parents / carers will accept the liability of any expenses incurred. 33. Parents / Carers must make a written request to CCM, including providing instructions for support in the administration of any medication/drug, and any special needs of the student. Please use our Medical Request form available on the website or from the administration office. 34. Medication must be labelled with the name of the drug, name of the student, dosage, frequency of administration and name of prescribing medical practitioner. 35. Non-prescription medication such as analgesics (Panadol, etc.) will not be administered by the CCM staff unless the above process is followed including a note or prescription from a medical doctor. CONDUCT 36. Parents / Carers are required to read and understand the CCM Code of Conduct Policy and adhere to, and where appropriate, remind students and all community members of these requirements when interacting with each other. 37. CCM does not have a uniform but has expectations of students in regard to personal presentation and dress standards. Please see Code of Conduct Policy. Consequences apply when students fall short of meeting these standards and requirements. 38. Students will be held accountable for failure to comply with reasonable directions given by a person in authority or for failure to comply with reasonable requests or rules. 39. For serious or repeated breaches of expectations or Policies and Rules, the Principal or Principals delegate reserves the right to suspend or expel the student from CCMPS. The Principal will not proceed with suspension or expulsion until allegations of misconduct have been discussed with the Student and the Parents / Carers. 40. If the student damages or destroys CCM property the parents / carers agree to pay the costs of repairs or replacement of that property. 41. Conduct by the student that brings CCM into disrepute (whether at school or beyond school) will attract consequences from the school and may also at times attract legal remedies. INDEMNITY 42. By this Contract, parents / carers indemnify CCM against any loss or damage caused by any failure of parents / carers or students to comply with CCM rules and policies. This includes any loss or damage caused by the wilful disobedience or reckless behaviour of the student. NOTICE OF INTENTION TO LEAVE 43. If parents / carers decide to cancel a student’s enrolment, they must provide CCM with a 4 week notice period before the end of terms 2, 4, 6 or 8 in writing. If you do not provide CCM with adequate notice you will be required to pay the subsequent terms fees. Any outstanding fees or levies will remain a parent / carer liability and will be required to be paid immediately. 44. If a student is withdrawn from CCM for one School Term or more and a place is to be kept pending their return, a holding fee will be charged. The holding fee charged is 50% of the termly fees plus any government recurrent grant foregone by the school during this period. This holding fee will be payable before the student is withdrawn to ensure the enrolment place is kept. TUITION FEES 45. Fees will be revised annually and notified to parents / carers before commencement of the year to which the fees apply. Generally, the fees will increase up to 5% per annum. Please see the annual Financial Investment document for current rates and payment options. 46. Parental or carer financial obligations to CCM are the responsibility of all parties to this contract and will not be split or provided to one parent / carer unless a court order implicitly states a provision for the payment of independent school fees by one parent / carer. 47. Parents / Carers are expected to raise any problems relating to fee payment promptly with the Business Manager or Principal. Non-payment of fees owing can entitle CCM to terminate the student’s enrolment. Any fees or monies outstanding will remain a parent / carer liability even if enrollment is terminated by either party. 48. Unless in exceptional circumstances, no student may commence a new Term unless the previous Term’s fee commitment has been settled. This includes the transition from Preschool to the Primary where all outstanding Preschool fees must be paid before your child starts the transition program. 49. If CCM increases the fees for a year by more than 10% the fees payable for the preceding year, parents / carers may terminate this enrolment contract by notice in writing to the Principal within fourteen (14) days of the date on which we notify you of the increase. 50. New enrolments to CCMPS will be charged on a pro-rata basis (dependent on entry) for the balance of the Term commenced. PRIVACY 51. The parents / carers have read the CCM Privacy policy and agree to abide by the terms including any alterations when this document is updated from time to time. CONSENT 52. Parents / Carers agree to the publication of any CCM-related material by or about the student, including photography to be placed on Transparent Classroom/OWNA and the myCCM Family App. 53. Images and names of students will not be used for advertising or marketing services unless consent has been obtained by parents / carers. 54. Parents / Carers agree for their child/ren to play in the park and playground area outside, fully supervised, during CCM hours. SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION OF ENROLMENT 55. The Principal or Delegate may suspend or terminate the enrolment of a student at any time for reasons which may include, but are not limited to: a serious breach of the code of conduct by a student where a parent / carer has breached this enrolment agreement conduct by a parent / carer prejudicial to the reputation of the school or the wellbeing of its students or staff where the Principal/Delegate or school board reasonably believes that a mutually beneficial relationship of co-operation and trust between CCM and the Parent/s or carer/s has broken down to the extent that it adversely impacts the ability for an enrolment to continue If parent/s or carer/s mislead or fail to provide material information regarding the special needs of a student upon enrolment and this has a material impact on CCM’s ability to meet the needs of the student. THIS AGREEMENT 56. This Enrolment Contract will be binding and remain in force for the duration of the students enrolment at CCM. 57. I/We warrant that all information provided by us to CCM during the enrolment process is honest and correct and full disclosure has been made. 58. I/We have provided payment of the required application fees and levies and understand that it is non-refundable or transferable. 59. I/We have read and understood the above conditions and hereby accept the offer of enrolment of my/our child to attend CCM Please read all Parent / Carer Policies and Procedures and complete the Direct Debit Request Form if you choose this method of payment. All relevant policies and procedures can be accessed on our website or physical copies can be obtained from the administration office.

  • Vision, Misson & Values | Central Coast Montessori

    Home / Vision, Misson & Values / Vision, Mission & Values EDUCATION FOR LIFE Education for Life At Central Coast Montessori, and in keeping with a deeply considered Montessori lens, we are strong advocates for each child’s journey of becoming—of constructing the adult they are to become. This construction unfolds through a delicate and deliberate balance of liberty and responsibility, guided by rich, purposeful, and challenging learning spaces that inspire meaningful engagement. We are proponents of liberty through learning. Our task is not only to provide educational environments that promote self-development, growth and learning but places where one (through experience and process) learns how to adapt, to grow in independence always framed within the concept of then adding value to society to the collective…to the very resource they used to construct themselves so that those coming after them can do the same . . . sustaining life. Our 5 Organisational Stages Our Commitment 1 – INVITE – (welcome, share, connect) 2 – INFORM – (inform, inspire, enrich) Your Work 3 – INTERPLAY – (consider, collaborate, question) 4 – INTEGRATE – (understand, grow, advocate) Our Culture 5 – INNOVATE – (add value, contribute, sustain) A key foundational understanding in Montessori pedagogy is that it is the task of every human being to construct themselves through their relationship with their environment. To best support the innate learning that drives human development, along with the process of acquiring the necessary skills to fully immerse oneself in and engage with their environment, at CCM we believe that nurturing the following eight attributes, attitudes or characteristics is fundamental, and therefore forms part of the way we approach the realisation of our learning spaces (each class representing a microcosm of the world). 8 CCM Attitudes to Enrich Your Learning, Life & Legacy Imagine Freely To be limitless in our plight to see the unseen. (In a Montessori setting every human being is free to explore providing they aren’t harming themselves, others and/or the environment. This is true self-creation rooted in social conscience.) Inquire Boldy Be fearless on the pathway towards better understanding anything. (Develop a culture toward & an understanding of inquiry as the mechanism through which deeper connection is made.) Experience Broadly Diverse experience is the foundation of vaster knowing. (The more diverse the experience the richer the pool of resources from which one can self-construct.) Practice Deeply Take from the fullness of what an experience has to offer. (In our settings, the environment is dynamic, the experiences meaningful, and lessons are given with context. Time is afforded; individualised learning is the norm, one’s exploration endless, and their process key.) Relish Challenge Change is constant, the world ever-evolving, and life—every moment—is opportunity. Stretch the rubber band. (As we grow, learn, and evolve, we will be met with daily challenges. We seek to understand struggle, and the discomfort challenge brings, so deeply that we come to relish it as a necessary pathway towards growth.) Create Responsibly While imagining freely, inquiring boldly, and experiencing broadly, we still have a social responsibility to create for collective betterment. (Montessori always sought to consider each citizen as an individual with the potential to make a valuable contribution . . . each citizen was the building block of, inextricably linked to, and responsible for the civilisation of which they are a part. Caring for the environment from which they draw the resources to realise their potential is of prime importance.) Contribute Meaningfully Share the unique way you see the world in a way that enhances others and their learning, for their growth benefits you. (Diversity is a true gift, and to access the profound collective wisdom is like stepping into an infinite resource library. We see the world differently, and as such are each capable of contributing differently. To do this mindfully, from a considered place cognisant of our own biases and/or blind spots, promotes collaboration.) Try, Fail, Learn & Try Again Every experience provides opportunity for learning, growth or reflection. (Montessori was a proponent of us having a friendly attitude toward error for in every experience there exists learning to be had. )

  • Prospectus | Central Coast Montessori

    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

  • Preschool Ages 3-6 | Central Coast Montessori

    Our Preschool program offers a rigorous Montessori framework for children 3–6, fostering literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills through hands-on, evidence-based learning. discover more ENROLMENT FAQ APPLY TO ENROL Home / Preschool Ages 3-6 / Preschool Program LAYING STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFELONG LEARNING What is Montessori for the 0-6 Year Old? Families exploring Montessori education often have numerous questions, and we understand the importance of providing the right information to help you make informed decisions for your child and family. Central Coast Montessori offers a strong educational foundation to support and guide your child’s development. We appreciate your consideration of our Early Years program for your child. We offer Parent and Child classes from 3 months of age, to assist in preparing to enter our Preschool community starting at age 3 when your child will embark on a unique, enriching journey through the Montessori approach. As part of what is known in Montessori education as Cycle 1, our Early Years Preschool program focuses on the distinct needs of children aged 3 to 6. What Makes Montessori Learning Different from Play-Based Programs? Our educators act as Guides in the children's learning journeys, helping them to develop skills, follow their interests, and realise their individual potential. Children in our Early Years move from chaos to order, from distraction to focus through purposeful activities within the prepared environment. This transformation occurs through engaging, repeated experiences that captivate their attention and imagination. They learn effortlessly as part of the process. Education here is individualised, allowing each child to progress at their own pace under the guidance of trained Montessori professionals, all within an environment that promotes curiosity and active engagement. Literacy is a particular strength: more than 80% of our Preschool children are reading before they enter Primary, with many also confidently writing. These outcomes reflect the depth and consistency of the Montessori approach to language, which combines phonetic awareness, tactile learning materials, and an environment rich in spoken and written language. At Central Coast Montessori, we also include plenty of nature, outdoor play, and immersive experiences on our beautiful acreage campus. What Do Children Learn? The journey of the 3 to 6-year-old child is one of ‘self-construction’. Utilising the Montessori philosophy and specially designed materials, we support each child's capacity to absorb knowledge and foster their growth. Our Cycle 1 program encompasses four core areas: Practical Life Sensorial Language Mathematics Cultural The pre-primary environment connects the child to the world. We provide globes, maps, songs, landforms, and diverse cultural materials that promote the child's growth as an individual, fostering an appreciation for the broader context of their world. The Practical Life component bridges the child’s home life with the classroom experience. A child's innate desire for order and independence is expressed through various activities and materials that promote fine motor skills and foundational learning necessary for more advanced work. The Practical Life materials engage children in focused movements that encourage concentration, self-paced work, and the completion of tasks, leading to feelings of accomplishment and confidence. This area covers four primary aspects: Control of Movement, Care of Person, Care of Environment, and Grace and Courtesy. Practical Life From an early age, children naturally seek to create order and engage in sorting, arranging, and classifying their experiences. The sensorial component of our program plays a vital role in developing their perception and understanding of the world. Our sensorial materials offer children opportunities to explore and identify differences and similarities among various objects. As they advance, children learn to categorise objects based on measurable attributes, progressing from basic concepts to more complex distinctions. Each piece of sensorial equipment isolates a specific quality perceived through the senses, such as colour, shape, size, texture, temperature, volume, pitch, weight, and taste. By using precise vocabulary like loud/soft, long/short, rough/smooth, and terms for shapes, children enhance their sensorial experiences, making their world more meaningful. Sensorial Maria Montessori believed reading, writing, and language should not be taught separately. In our pre-primary setting, children are immersed in their natural language development through a structured program that includes songs, games, and stories. Preparation for writing begins with Practical Life and Sensorial activities that enhance fine motor skills and sound recognition. Children learn alphabet symbols alongside spoken language, trace sandpaper letters to feel sounds, and use movable alphabets to create words and stories. Creativity flourishes as they explore language intricacies, allowing them to read independently and open a gateway to literature. Language Mathematics is a lens through which we can understand and express measurable relationships. Children’s exposure to mathematical concepts begins with sensorial experiences that help them recognise variations in distance, dimension, and sequence. In our Montessori framework, concepts like geometry, algebra, and arithmetic are interlinked, reflecting real-life connections. Using tangible materials, children learn to add, subtract, multiply, and divide, gradually grasping abstract mathematical ideas with enthusiasm and ease. For example, the golden bead material illustrates the numerical, geometric, and dimensional Mathematics In the Preschool, the Cultural Area introduces children to geography, history, nature, and science. These experiences help them understand their place in the wider world and nurture a sense of wonder about how things connect. Geography materials support children in exploring continents, countries, and landforms, giving them a concrete sense of belonging in the world. History activities help children grasp the concept of change — through observing the seasons, studying the weather, and marking the days on the calendar, they begin to understand the cycles of time. Birthdays are celebrated with a beautiful Montessori tradition: the child carries the globe in a walk around a representation of the sun, marking each year of their journey through life. Cultural Where to from here? The Early Years Gallery Lets Go

  • Birth of a Movement | Central Coast Montessori

    Born over a century ago, Montessori education is more relevant than ever—uniting scientific insight with respect for the child to shape lifelong learners. discover more MONTESSORI FAQ PARENT & CHILD CLASSES Home / Birth of a Movement / Birth of a Movement OVER 100 YEARS OF MONTESSORI EDUCATION WORLDWIDE Montessori is more than just an educational approach; it is a worldwide movement with over fifteen thousand schools across 154 countries. It empowers children and nurtures the changemakers our world needs today. Dr Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, educator maverick, and innovator, transformed education by understanding how children learn naturally. Her groundbreaking approach, the Montessori Method, has grown into a global movement with thousands of schools worldwide. Maria Montessori was born in 1870 in Chiaravalle, Italy, and raised in Rome. Immersed in libraries, museums, and schools, she developed an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Breaking societal norms, Maria pursued education in fields traditionally closed to women, beginning with engineering before turning to medicine. In 1896, she became one of Italy’s first female physicians—a testament to her determination and brilliance. Initially focusing on psychiatry, Maria’s interest turned to education. Observing children with developmental differences, she challenged prevailing teaching methods and pioneered an approach rooted in careful observation and respect for the child. Her methods yielded remarkable progress, and she was appointed co-director of a special education institute, where her innovative ideas began to flourish. The Montessori Movement truly began in 1907 with the establishment of the Casa dei Bambini (Children’s House) in San Lorenzo, Rome. Here, Maria created a prepared environment filled with carefully designed materials that empowered children to learn independently. She observed how children absorbed knowledge from their surroundings, cultivated concentration, and exhibited self-discipline—all without the imposition of traditional authority. Her work captivated educators, journalists, and public figures, sparking a global movement. By 1910, Montessori schools had spread across Western Europe and reached the United States. Maria devoted the rest of her life to advancing her child-centred philosophy, writing extensively, training educators, and promoting her vision worldwide. A feminist and a pioneer, Maria also championed women’s rights and peace education, integrating these values into Montessori pedagogy. Her resilience and dedication saw her navigate turbulent times, including exile during World War II, during which she continued her work in India. Maria Montessori passed away in 1952, leaving behind an enduring legacy that continues to shape education worldwide. Her philosophy—one that respects the individual, fosters curiosity, and celebrates lifelong learning—remains at the heart of Central Coast Montessori today.

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