Master Planning 2025-2035
Canberra Montessori School
Montessori Society
THE MASTER PLAN
Dear CMS Community,
I hope you have all had a wonderful, restful break, filled with time to connect with loved ones and recharge. It’s always special to step into a new school year with fresh energy, new opportunities, and the excitement of what’s to come.
As Dr. Maria Montessori said, “The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.” This belief is at the heart of everything we do at CMS. Our work extends beyond today we are shaping a future where children grow into capable, independent, and compassionate individuals who will contribute meaningfully to the world.
This year begins with exciting news for our school. Last year, we secured a grant to begin master planning for CMS for the next 10 years an incredible milestone that will help shape the future of our community. This planning process has been both inspiring and deeply meaningful, and I am so pleased to share that our 10-year master plan is now ready. I have attached it for you all to explore. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our Board Chair, finance committee, and particularly Karen Achurch and other board members, who has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.
One of the most significant steps forward for our school is the approval to build another Cycle 3 classroom this year, thanks to funding from the Block Grant Authority (BGA). With enrolments for next year looking strong, expanding our capacity ensures that we can continue to offer Montessori education to as many children as possible.
Another initiative we are incredibly proud of is our five-year plan to refresh and replace Montessori materials across all classrooms. As part of this, our older materials will be carefully refurbished through Montessori Australia and sent to schools that may not have the resources to access them. It is heartwarming to know that, in this way, CMS is not only investing in the highest quality learning environment for our own children but also helping other Montessori schools and children continue their journey.
A question I am often asked is, “Will Canberra Montessori School ever have a high school?” I am so pleased to share that Cycle 4 and Cycle 5 are now officially part of our long-term vision. This is an exciting step forward, made possible by the commitment and passion of our families who believe in Montessori education beyond the primary years.
As we enter this next phase of growth, I want to extend an invitation to those who would like to be part of shaping the future of CMS. If you have skills, experience, or a passion for building and planning, I encourage you to join our Building and Maintenance Committee. Your contributions no matter how big or small can make a lasting impact on our school community and the generations of children who will walk through these doors in the years to come.
I have been eagerly waiting to share all of this news with you, and I welcome any thoughts, questions, or feedback. If you’d like to chat, please don’t hesitate to reach out I would love to hear from you.
Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in Montessori education. The work we are doing together will have a lasting impact, and I am grateful to be walking this path alongside you.
Kind regards,
Halima Principal, Canberra Montessori School
Dr Maria Montessori’s words have been a driving force behind the design of our Master Plan for next 10 years. To think and to wish is not enough. It is action which counts
CONCEPTUAL SITE PLAN
