Montessori Academy Childcare & Early Learning
With over 70 childcare and long day care centres nationwide, Montessori Academy is the leading provider of Montessori early learning and preschool in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra for ages 0–6, designed to give every child an extraordinary start to life.
Years of Excellence in Montessori Education
Childcare Centres Across NSW, VIC & ACT
Centres Rated Exceeding or Meeting the NQS
Families Who Trust Us With Their Children
Child safety and wellbeing are our highest priority, embedded in every decision, policy and practice across all of our early learning and long daycare centres. We exceed the standards with our four-pillar child safety ecosystem.
Working with Children Checks
Embedded Safety Practices
Active Hands-On Supervision
Qualification Compliance Passport
Education Programs
Programs for Every Stage of Your Child's Development
The confidence you hope for your child isn’t taught. It’s discovered through hands-on early childhood education that builds genuine capability from infancy through to primary school, and beyond.
0-2
Our infant program is designed to meet the needs and interests of babies aged 0–2, supporting early childhood development through movement and exploration.
2-3
The Montessori Toddler Program is active, self-paced, and involves learning using all five senses. Children are introduced to the five areas of the Montessori Curriculum.
3-6
The Montessori Preschool Program is a structured academics and wellbeing program that prepares children for their transition to school.
4-6
Our School Readiness and Kinder Preparation Program combines school-styled workbooks with practical school readiness skills.
0-2
Our infant program is designed to meet the needs and interests of babies aged 0–2, supporting early childhood development through movement and exploration.
2-3
The Montessori Toddler Program is active, self-paced, and involves learning using all five senses. Children are introduced to the five areas of the Montessori Curriculum.
3-6
The Montessori Preschool Program is a structured academics and wellbeing program that prepares children for their transition to school.
4-6
Our School Readiness and Kinder Preparation Program combines school-styled workbooks with practical school readiness skills.
Our Story
Founded by Parents, For Parents Who Want More Than Childcare
"We started Montessori Academy to give our children the best start in life. Now, our grandchildren attend our services."
More than twenty-five years ago, parents Charles and Colette Assaf stood at an observation window in Croydon and watched children learning in a way they had never seen before. Calm, focused, and thriving.
What began as a decision for their own five children became a mission to give every Australian family access to the benefits of Montessori education. Today, that mission continues to guide everything we do.
The Montessori Difference
A Proven Approach, 100 Years in the Making
Montessori education is a globally proven methodology, shaped by more than a century of understanding how children naturally learn, and loved by families across every continent.
Capable Independent Learners
Children build confidence and capability through real experience.
The Prepared Environment
Classrooms are intentionally designed and everything has a purpose and place.
Montessori Materials
Children use hands-on learning tools that develop real thinking skills.
Educator as Observer & Guide
Our trained educators tailor learning to each child's stage of development and interests.
Whole Child Development
Capable, confident, and kind. Montessori nurtures every part of who your child is becoming.
School & Future Ready
The results speak for themselves. Our graduates demonstrate advanced school readiness skills.
Why Montessori
Why Families Choose Montessori Academy
Families choose Montessori Academy because they can feel the difference. Warm, genuinely engaged educators, calm and structured learning environments, and children who are deeply engaged and thriving.
Genuinely Engaged Educators
Visible Learning Progress
Happy Children Who Enjoy Learning
Strong Support & Communication
Calm Structured Classrooms
Holistic School Readiness
Child Care Subsidy
Premium Montessori Education Costs Less Than You Think
The Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy (CCS) can significantly reduce the cost of quality childcare and early learning. Most families with children in approved daycare or early learning centres are eligible, and many are surprised by how affordable quality Montessori care can be.
With the 3 Day Guarantee, eligible families receive CCS for a minimum of 3 days per week, regardless of your work or activity status.
Estimate My Out-of-Pocket Cost
Book a Centre Tour
You'll feel the difference the moment you walk in. See why children and families love Montessori.Enrol or Waitlist
Complete your enrolment or waitlist form. Our Family Care Team will guide you through every step.Attend Orientation
Join an orientation session with your child to settle in with ease. Your family's journey begins here.70+ Childcare Centres
Find Childcare Near You
Montessori Academy operates over 70 premium childcare, daycare, and preschool centres across NSW, VIC and ACT, providing Montessori early learning for children aged 0–6. Whether you’re searching for high quality education, long day care, infant care, or a Montessori preschool near you, we have a centre tailored to your family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking a Tour
What is Montessori education, and how is it different from regular childcare? +
Montessori is a scientific approach to early childhood education developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over 100 years ago. At Montessori Academy, it means education is personalised to each child's learning style, stage of development, and interests.
Unlike play-based childcare, our Education Programs are child-led and self-paced, guided by Montessori-trained educators within a purposefully prepared environment.
Children develop complete academic and wellbeing foundations through hands-on experience, real-world application, and the five Montessori curriculum areas: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural Studies. This is what sets Montessori apart from standard long day care and play-based childcare centres.
What age can my child start at Montessori Academy? +
Montessori Academy welcomes children from birth through to school age across three tailored programs: Infant (0–2), Toddler (2–3), and Preschool (3–6). Age group offerings may vary by location, with most centres catering for children from six weeks to school age or from two years onwards.
Children who begin their journey early often settle quickly and progress more deeply through the Montessori curriculum, entering the Preschool Program with strong foundations across all key learning areas.
However, children can start at any age and thrive within the Montessori environment. We recommend booking a tour to explore your local centre and find the program that best supports your child's stage of development.
Is Montessori Academy on the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)? +
Yes — all Montessori Academy childcare centres are registered for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). Depending on your family income, the CCS may cover 50–90% of your fees, meaning quality Montessori education is far more accessible than many families expect.
Under the 3 Day Guarantee, all eligible families receive a minimum of three days (72 hours) of subsidised care per fortnight. If you're new to childcare, our Family Care Team recommends applying for the CCS as soon as possible. Use our Childcare Subsidy Calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket costs, or call us on 1300 000 162.
What does a typical day look like at Montessori Academy? +
Each day at Montessori Academy is anchored by the Montessori Work Cycle, an extended period of uninterrupted, self-directed learning that allows children to concentrate deeply, make meaningful progress, and develop a genuine sense of mastery.
Across the day, children experience a balanced rhythm of learning, movement, social connection, grace and courtesy, project-based experiences, group learning, and fun. For older children, this also includes intentional school readiness experiences that build confidence, independence, and foundational academic skills.
Families receive real-time updates throughout the day via our family communication app, including photos, activities, and your child's eating, sleeping, and toileting schedule.
How is Montessori Academy different from other Montessori childcare centres? +
Montessori Academy is Australia's leading and largest Montessori childcare group, established in 2000 and operating more than 70 centres across NSW, VIC, and ACT. 96% of our centres are rated Meeting or Exceeding the National Quality Standard by ACECQA, placing us among Australia's top-rated early learning providers.
We are also the first childcare group in Australia to achieve ISO certification across three globally recognised standards. Not all centres that use the word "Montessori" are affiliated with us or deliver an authentic Montessori program. When comparing centres, look for a full range of Montessori materials, five clearly defined curriculum areas, and educators who can articulate and implement the core principles of Montessori education.
Will Montessori Academy prepare my child for primary school? +
Absolutely, and it begins from your child's very first day, not just in the final preschool year.
Our school readiness approach is embedded across every stage of the Montessori journey, progressively building strong foundations in language, literacy, numeracy, concentration, coordination, and independence. Each experience is intentionally layered, allowing children to develop skills in sequence and at their own pace.
Within the prepared environment, children engage with hands-on Montessori materials designed to support the development of the whole child — cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically. By the time they reach the Preschool Program, they are not only academically prepared, but confident, capable, and ready to thrive in a school setting.
How do I enrol my child at Montessori Academy? +
We encourage families to start thinking about childcare as soon as they're expecting. The best time to join our Waiting List is before your child turns two — the Infant Room (0–2) is the only room with regular annual intake, as children transition up through the program each year.
To get started, book a centre tour where you'll meet the Centre Manager, explore the environment, and receive an Enrolment Kit or Waiting List application. Families can join the Waiting List at multiple Montessori Academy centres, and will receive quarterly updates from our Family Care Team while they wait.
How do I know if Montessori Academy is the right choice? +
The best way to find out is to visit us in person. During your tour you will meet the Centre Manager, explore the prepared learning environments, and see Montessori education in action. Come with questions so you can get a genuine feel for our educators, facilities, and approach before making a decision.
Key things to consider include our education program, centre reputation, educator experience, opening hours (7:30am to 6:00pm at most centres), inclusions, and proximity to your home or work.
Ready to take the next step? Book a tour or call our Family Care Team on 1300 000 162.
Parent Resources
Guides & Insights for Montessori Families
Learning how to go to the toilet or ‘potty-training’ a natural stage of your child’s emerging independence. The Montessori approach to toilet training your child is a three-step process that is grounded in respect and gentle guidance.
Learning how to go to the toilet or ‘potty-training’ a natural stage of your child’s emerging independence. The Montessori approach to toilet training your child is a three-step process that is grounded in respect and gentle guidance.
The Difference Between Montessori and Reggio Emilia Explained When families compare Reggio Emilia vs Montessori, they are often choosing between two respected approaches to early childhood education that prioritise the child as an active participant in learning. Both philosophies value curiosity, respect, and meaningful engagement, yet they differ in how learning is structured, how educators guide children, and how classrooms are designed. In addition, these approaches reflect distinct educational philosophies that influence not only what children learn but also how they experience learning every day. Montessori education emphasises independence, self-discipline, and mastery of practical and academic skills, allowing children to progress at their own pace through carefully designed materials. Reggio Emilia, on the other hand, encourages collaborative exploration, creative expression, and project-based inquiry, highlighting...
Learning how to go to the toilet or ‘potty-training’ a natural stage of your child’s emerging independence. The Montessori approach to toilet training your child is a three-step process that is grounded in respect and gentle guidance.
Learning how to go to the toilet or ‘potty-training’ a natural stage of your child’s emerging independence. The Montessori approach to toilet training your child is a three-step process that is grounded in respect and gentle guidance.
The Difference Between Montessori and Reggio Emilia Explained When families compare Reggio Emilia vs Montessori, they are often choosing between two respected approaches to early childhood education that prioritise the child as an active participant in learning. Both philosophies value curiosity, respect, and meaningful engagement, yet they differ in how learning is structured, how educators guide children, and how classrooms are designed. In addition, these approaches reflect distinct educational philosophies that influence not only what children learn but also how they experience learning every day. Montessori education emphasises independence, self-discipline, and mastery of practical and academic skills, allowing children to progress at their own pace through carefully designed materials. Reggio Emilia, on the other hand, encourages collaborative exploration, creative expression, and project-based inquiry, highlighting...
Join a thriving community of families who trust Montessori Academy as their early education partner.