Melbourne Montessori School
Secular
Updated July 2026
Melbourne Montessori College is an independent, co-educational school providing Montessori education for children aged 18 months to 18 years. It operates across two campuses in Caulfield and Brighton, offering a continuous learning journey from early childhood through to senior secondary education.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school is founded on the Montessori method, which believes that children learn best when they are free to explore at their own pace in a specifically prepared environment. The philosophy emphasizes the development of the whole child, fostering independence, self-direction, and a deep connection to knowledge. Teachers act as guides and facilitators, creating a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere that honours each student's unique developmental path.
Programmes
The school offers a comprehensive Montessori program divided into cycles: Parent and Toddler groups (18 months to 2.5 years), Early Learners (2 to 3 years), and a Junior School (3 years to Year 6). The Senior School (Years 7 to 12) provides pathways including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the VCE VM. The curriculum is taught through interdisciplinary, project-based learning in multi-age classrooms, where students engage in hands-on, real-world experiences.
Outcomes
Students at the school develop into self-motivated, independent, and responsible learners with a lifelong passion for curiosity. The curriculum is designed to exceed the requirements of the Australian National Curriculum, preparing students for life through the development of executive functioning, self-regulation, and cooperation skills. Senior students have the opportunity to pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or the VCE VM, providing pathways for further education and personal growth.
Student support
Learning support
The school prioritises the social, emotional, and intellectual development of its students, supported by a team that includes student counsellors and learning assistants. The Montessori approach focuses on the whole child, ensuring that students feel safe, valued, and supported in their individual learning journeys. Teachers are trained to provide an inclusive environment that fosters empathy, patience, and meaningful connections.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Melbourne Montessori School offer?
- Melbourne Montessori School offers IB Diploma and Montessori.
- How much is tuition at Melbourne Montessori School?
- Annual tuition at Melbourne Montessori School is A$2.7K–A$27.4K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Melbourne Montessori School hold?
- Melbourne Montessori School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Melbourne Montessori School co-educational?
- Melbourne Montessori School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Melbourne Montessori School located?
- Melbourne Montessori School is an international school in Melbourne, Australia.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Parent and Toddler Groups | 1–3 | A$2.7K |
| Early Learners Program (2 x sessions per week) | 1–3 | A$5.4K |
| Early Learners Program (3 x sessions per week) | 1–3 | A$8K |
| Early Learners Program (4 x sessions per week) | 1–3 | A$10.7K |
| Early Learners Program (5 x sessions per week) | 1–3 | A$13.4K |
| Cycle 1 (3YO – Half Day) | 3–3 | A$10.1K |
| Cycle 1 (3YO – Full Day) | 3–3 | A$15.5K |
| Cycle 1 (4YO) | 4–4 | A$15.5K |
| Cycle 1 (Prep) | 5–5 | A$18.5K |
| Cycle 2 (Years 1 to 3) | 6–8 | A$18.5K |
| Cycle 3 (Years 4 to 6) | 9–11 | A$18.5K |
| Cycle 4 (Year 7 and 8) | 12–13 | A$26.4K |
| Cycle 5 (Year 9 and 10) | 14–15 | A$26.4K |
| Senior Secondary (Year 11 and 12) | 16–17 | A$27.4K |
Discounts
- Full-payment discount: 3.5%
Admissions
The school offers an enrolment process that begins with a school tour, which provides families with a firsthand look at the Montessori environment. Following a tour, families may proceed with an application and arrange a student transition visit. The admissions team is available to provide personalised advice and support throughout each stage of the enrolment journey.
Calendar
The school operates on a four-term academic year, with tuition fees charged in four instalments, at least one term in advance. Registrations for small group tours are held throughout the year, with specific dates available for booking via the school's website.
Facilities
About the campus
Melbourne Montessori College operates two campuses located in Caulfield and Brighton. Both sites feature age-appropriate outdoor spaces with play equipment designed for exploration and discovery, alongside classrooms equipped with natural light and specially-designed Montessori materials. The learning environments are carefully prepared to support the developmental needs of students across all age groups.
Co-curriculars
The school provides a range of after-school clubs and activities to complement the academic program. Students participate in various camps, sports days, and adventure experiences, such as snowsports trips, which are designed to foster teamwork, independence, and connection. Additionally, students engage in real-world learning opportunities, including project-based units that connect them with the broader community.
- Janis CoffeyPrincipal
Janis Coffey is the Principal of Melbourne Montessori College and the Chair of Montessori Schools & Centres Australia. She has extensive experience in both government and independent school sectors, with a background in curriculum, pastoral care, and child wellbeing.
- Ilja van WeringhHead of Campus – Brighton
Ilja van Weringh is the Head of Campus at Brighton. She has a background in history, humanities, and philosophy, and is passionate about fostering student independence and agency.
- Kim CollinsHead of People and Culture
Kim Collins is the Head of People and Culture at MMC. She brings international experience from the not-for-profit sector and is focused on building supportive, thriving teams.
- Jaszmin Dennis-HayneSenior School Teacher
Jaszmin Dennis-Hayne is a Senior School Teacher at MMC. She is passionate about the Montessori philosophy and focuses on nurturing curiosity and independence in her students.
- Manya SikkaStudent Counsellor / Learning Assistant (Cycle 4)
Manya Sikka is a Student Counsellor and Learning Assistant for Cycle 4. She joined MMC in 2026 and is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing and independence of students.
- Karan JonesMMC Librarian
Karan Jones is the school librarian at MMC. She has over 20 years of experience in public and university libraries and is passionate about fostering a love of reading and curiosity in students.
- Ned SmithfieldBrighton Physical Expression Teacher
Ned Smithfield is the Brighton Physical Expression Teacher. He has taught internationally and is passionate about helping students grow through movement, teamwork, and challenge.
More international schools in Melbourne
- Sophia Mundi Steiner SchoolIB Diploma, Montessori
- Methodist Ladies' College (MLC)MLCIB Diploma
- St Leonard's CollegeIB PYP, IB Diploma
- Caulfield Grammar School - Wheelers Hill CampusIB PYP, IB MYP, Montessori
- Wesley College Melbourne - Glen Waverley CampusIB PYP, IB MYP, IB Diploma
- Kingswood CollegeIB Diploma
IB Diploma
Montessori