We’re excited to share the very first update from Wonderwood Montessori School as we prepare to open our doors in Cairns.
This marks the beginning of our journey, and we’re looking forward to building a strong, connected school community with you.
We’re proud to introduce our Principal, Des Reuben, who brings nearly 30 years of experience in education and leadership.
Des has worked across a wide range of educational settings, including leading roles at some of Australia’s most established Montessori schools. Most recently, he served as Principal at one of the longest-running Montessori schools in Western Australia and played a key role in developing adolescent Montessori programs through to Year 12.
His passion lies in experiential learning and helping children develop independence, confidence, and a genuine love of learning.
On a personal note, Des grew up in Melbourne and has a strong interest in sport, music, and woodworking. He looks forward to meeting families and hearing your stories as Wonderwood begins its journey in Cairns.
Wonderwood Montessori School will be located at:
156 Irene Street, Mooroobool, QLD
While the original vision was to build a new campus in Stoney Creek, timelines required a more immediate solution. A suitable property at Irene Street has now been secured and is currently being prepared for students.
The space is being designed to inspire learning, creativity, and engagement, giving children the best possible start to their Montessori journey. Builders are working towards a planned opening in 2026.
Montessori education focuses on developing the whole child through hands-on learning, independence, and real-world skills.
For families new to Montessori, we recommend starting with the book:
“The Absorbent Mind” by Dr Maria Montessori
This foundational text explains how children naturally learn and develop, and how the Montessori method supports that process.
“Our work is not to teach, but to help the absorbent mind in its work of development.”
– Dr Maria Montessori
We’ll continue sharing resources, reading suggestions, and opportunities for parent learning in future updates.
Wonderwood Montessori School is supported by the Montessori Children’s Foundation (MCF), an organisation focused on making Montessori education accessible to more children across Australia.
Their mission is to support families and communities by creating environments that encourage independence, self-reliance, and a love of learning.
This partnership plays an important role in shaping the future of our school.
Our application with the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) is currently in progress.
Once approved, we will confirm our official opening date. At this stage, we are aiming for a start in Term 1 or Term 2, 2026.
A key part of Montessori education is “Practical Life” learning.
These activities help children build independence and confidence through everyday tasks:
These hands-on activities help children develop coordination, focus, and real-world skills that last a lifetime.
We’re pleased to confirm that all Expressions of Interest and waitlist applications have been recorded.
Enrolment interviews will be scheduled in due course.
Additional information, including fees and school hours, will be released following our upcoming board meeting.
We’re planning an Open Day where families can explore the campus, meet the team, and learn more about Montessori education.
The date is still to be confirmed, so stay tuned.
Our website is currently being finalised, with more updates coming soon.
You can also follow along on social media for progress updates, stories, and announcements:
Prefer the original format?
Download the full newsletter here: https://wonderwoodmontessori.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Wonderwood-Montessori-School-November-2025-Newsletter-edn-1-1.pdf
While primarily a lawyer practising in the ACT and NSW for over 40 years, I have longstanding commitments to a diverse range of community associations.
These have included environmental groups, a women’s refuge, a youth service, and a rural fire service. I currently chair the Byron Community Association, which is primarily dedicated to assisting people experiencing homelessness in the Byron Bay area.
Welcome to the second edition of our newsletter.
As we continue working towards opening our school, we’re excited to share the appointment of one of our inaugural teachers, Julie Hudson.
© Wonderwood Montessori School 2026
