About Us

Dr Maria Montessori’s approach to quality education is outlined in her extensive writings and those of her son, Mario. Montessori’s theory stands above the rest because of the many research studies which have now validated the Montessori principles, including that the hand and mind are essential elements in children’s educational development.

The Montessori education your child will receive not only incorporates the Early Years Learning Framework and Australian Curriculum but allows your child the physical means to really understand the concepts presented in both. Some major differences between our authentic Montessori school and traditional schools include the specifically developmentally designed Montessori Materials, the three-year mixed age groupings, and our unique Montessori individual approach to children.

Key Outcomes of a Montessori Education

Montessori, and subsequent research, have revealed that the key outcomes of a Montessori education include:

• Children being able to think and act independently and demonstrate tolerance with respect for the rights and needs of others.
• Children using initiative and self-motivation, embedding effective work habits for the future.
• Children using their creative intelligence and imagination.
• Children developing confidence, self-esteem and a sense of achievement.

Essential Elements of Authentic Montessori Education

There are many components that are vital to implementing quality Montessori education. Some essential keystone elements include:

• Montessori trained educators and leaders operate very differently from those in traditional schools. Adults work alongside each child rather than acting as authority figures. Authentic Montessori training ensures educators observe and guide children, allowing repetition of work with materials and activities. Many elements of Montessori philosophy also exist beyond materials, including values such as humility, patience, perseverance, respect, courage, fairness, self-discipline, creativity and a love of learning.
• Observation of the child forms the foundation of Montessori education. Educators carefully observe children and interpret the learning behaviours that originate within the child themselves. This objective method of observation is a key difference between Montessori education and other teaching approaches.
• Planes of Development recognise that children develop through distinct stages of growth. Montessori classrooms are structured around these stages, typically grouped as 0–6 years, 6–12 years, 12–18 years and 18–24 years, allowing children to learn alongside peers at similar developmental stages.
• Sensitive Periods are natural windows in a child’s development when they show intense interest in specific skills. These may include language development, movement, writing, order, reading, small objects, grace and courtesy, and refinement of the senses.
• The Absorbent Mind describes how children from birth to six naturally absorb knowledge from their surroundings without formal teaching. This highlights the importance of a carefully prepared environment and supportive adults.
• Human Tendencies are universal characteristics present from birth and throughout life, such as order, activity, imagination, exploration, communication, self-development and concentration. These tendencies can be supported or hindered depending on the educational environment.
• Uninterrupted work periods allow children to become deeply engaged in their activities. When children are interested in meaningful work, Montessori observed that they often feel energised rather than tired because their motivation comes from within.
• Montessori learning materials are specifically designed to support sensory learning and movement. These materials prepare children for future learning and encourage exploration, curiosity and intellectual growth.
• Individualised learning allows children to follow their interests and develop at their own rhythm and pace. Child-directed learning builds confidence, independence and a positive attitude toward learning.
• Partnerships with families are essential to Montessori education. When families understand and support the Montessori approach, children benefit from consistency between home and school environments.
• The prepared environment removes obstacles to learning and supports the development of the child’s body, mind and spirit. Montessori described education as a collaboration between the educator and the environment, with the educator acting as the catalyst between the child and their learning space.

To find out more about Dr Maria Montessori and the development of the Montessori method, visit:

Biography of Maria Montessori – Association Montessori Internationale
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Educational Theory Timeline