2024 Annual Report

20 24 ANNUAL REFLECTION

EDUCATION FOR LIFE

CENTRAL COAST MONTESSORI

Table Of

Contents

03

Reporting Area 1:

A Message from Key School Bodies

4

Reporting Area 2:

Contextual Information about the School & the Characteristics of the Student Body

9

Reporting Area 3:

Student Outcomes in Standardised National Literacy and Numeracy Testing

10

Reporting Area 4:

Senior Secondary Outcomes

11

Reporting Area 5:

Teacher Qualifications and Professional Learning

12

Reporting Area 6:

Workforce Composition

16

Reporting Area 7:

Attendance

17

Reporting Area 8:

Enrolment Policy

18

Reporting Area 9:

Other School Policies

16

Reporting Area 10:

School-determined Priority Areas for Improvement

17

Reporting Area 11:

Initiatives Promoting Respect and Responsibilities

18

Reporting Area 12:

Parent, Student and Teacher Satisfaction

19

Reporting Area 13:

Summary Financial Information

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

At Central Coast Montessori, we believe education is not simply preparation for the next stage — it is a lived experience that shapes how we think, feel, act, and connect.

When children are given the freedom to explore, the tools to understand, and the guidance to grow, they don’t just acquire knowledge — they develop character, purpose, and a lasting love of learning.

This is the essence of a Montessori education.

This is education for life.

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REPORTING AREA 1: A Message from Key School Bodies

Message

from the Board Dear Stakeholders,

As a Board, it is both a privilege and responsibility to uphold the vision and integrity of Central Coast Montessori. Each year, we witness the continued strength of our learning community — one that places the child at the centre, honours individuality, and builds towards a more compassionate and capable future.

In 2024, we supported the learning community through strategic planning, policy review, compliance monitoring, and the strengthening of long-term sustainability initiatives. We also continued our commitment to governance that is transparent, responsive, and aligned with the values of Montessori education.

We are deeply grateful to the Principal and leadership team for their tireless dedication, and to our educators for their daily presence, care, and professionalism. To our families and community members — thank you for your trust, your involvement, and your belief in what we do. The contributions of volunteers, friends, and families enrich our community in meaningful ways.

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

As we look to the future, we remain focused on cultivating an environment that supports curiosity, responsibility, and connection — the foundation of an education for life.

Warm regards, The Central Coast Montessori Board of Directors

REPORTING AREA 1: A Message from Key School Bodies

Learning for Life,

Principal’s Message Dear Stakeholders, At Central Coast Montessori, we believe education should do more than prepare children for the next test — it should prepare them for life. This belief continues to shape everything we do.

Montessori education invites children to become active participants in their own growth. It recognises that true learning is not simply the acquisition of facts, but the cultivation of curiosity, capability and compassion. When children feel connected — to themselves, to others, and to their environment — they begin to understand not only what they can do, but who they are becoming.

Throughout 2024, this vision continued to guide us. Whether it’s in a moment of quiet concentration, a spontaneous collaboration, or a shared discovery, we see daily evidence of learning that lasts. The kind of learning that builds character, encourages thoughtful contribution, and prepares children for a future of rapid and constant change.

It’s no secret: education needed to change a long time ago. Dr Maria Montessori answered that call over a century ago — and the relevance of her work is only becoming more widely understood today.

Her vision reminds us that education and schooling are not the same. Schools must now become something more — communities of learning, dynamic ecosystems, living exchanges of ideas, perspectives and possibility.

At CCM, we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement. We offer a distinctly enriching educational experience — one that supports independence, fosters adaptability, and encourages the kind of purposeful work that bridges aspiration and achievement. Our team of passionate guides remains focused on the whole child.

Our families continue to contribute with trust, insight and encouragement. And our students continue to amaze us — with their imagination and willingness to engage.

Montessori called education ‘a natural process carried out by the child.’ That process is as relevant today as ever. Our role is to support it with intention, care and vision — and to provide an education that empowers every child not just to succeed, but to thrive.

Sincerely,

Dimitri Nicolaou Dimitri Nicolaou Principal

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Enrich Your Learning, Life & Legacy

Eight CCM Attitudes

Imagine Freely Be limitless in the pursuit of possibility. Exploration is encouraged, so long as it honours self, others, and the environment.

Inquire Boldly Approach the unknown with curiosity. Inquiry is the foundation of connection and understanding.

Experience Broadly Seek out diverse experiences. Each one adds richness to the palette from which self-construction is painted.

Practice Deeply Engage meaningfully and with intention. Deep learning requires time, context, and presence.

Relish Challenge Stretch into discomfort. Growth comes through struggle, and we welcome the process of becoming.

Create Responsibly Imagination must be met with awareness. Each act of creation holds the potential to benefit others and the world.

Contribute Meaningfully Offer your unique perspective in ways that uplift the collective. Our differences are our strength.

Try, Fail, Learn & Try Again Mistakes are milestones. A friendly attitude toward error opens the door to resilience and wisdom.

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Vision, Mission & Values At Central Coast Montessori, education is more than a pathway to academic achievement — it is a call to life itself. Our learning community exists to nurture each child’s journey of becoming: of constructing the adult they are to become through meaningful experience, deep inquiry, and authentic connection.

Rooted in the principles of Montessori pedagogy, we believe in liberty through learning — in environments that foster independence, valorisation, and purposeful engagement. Each classroom becomes a microcosm of the world, a dynamic space where responsibility and freedom co-exist, and where every experience contributes to the child’s understanding of themselves and their place in society.

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REPORTING AREA 2: Contextual Information about the School & the Characteristics of the Student Body

About the Primary Years at CCM Central Coast Montessori Primary is an independent, non-denominational learning community located in Bateau Bay, NSW, serving children aged 6 to 12 years (equivalent to Years K–6). We offer a genuine Montessori education grounded in respect, independence, and deep inquiry.

Our classrooms are multi-age, mixed-ability environments designed to meet the developmental needs of the Primary years — a time of growing intellectual curiosity, social awareness, and ethical reasoning. We currently offer two learning cycles: Cycle 2 (Years K–3) Cycle 3 (Years 4–6) Rather than delivering a one-size-fits-all curriculum, we provide a deeply integrated, hands-on approach. Literacy, numeracy, cultural studies, science, art, and physical education are interwoven into purposeful learning experiences that reflect each child’s interests, needs, and developmental stage.

In 2024, our student cohort comprised 55 children (27 boys and 28 girls) representing a diverse and engaged group of learners from across the Central Coast and surrounding regions. The school continued to experience strong interest from families seeking a respectful, child-led approach to education, with steady enrolments supported by a clear transition pathway from our Montessori Preschool.

Our learning environment supports children to become independent thinkers and confident contributors. Through rich materials, open-ended inquiry, and strong relationships, students are supported to develop not only academic skills, but also resilience, empathy, and a sense of purpose.

Today, Central Coast Montessori stands as the only authentic Montessori Primary program on the Central Coast — a vibrant, future-focused learning community where each child is supported to grow with confidence, clarity, and care. With a strong foundation in independence, curiosity, and meaningful work, our students are not just preparing for what’s next — they are learning how to live with purpose and integrity.

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REPORTING AREA 3: Student Outcomes in Standardised National Literacy and Numeracy Testing

NAPLAN Assesment Program At Central Coast Montessori, our approach to assessment is grounded in contemporary educational research and closely aligned with Montessori philosophy. Our focus is on formative assessment, supporting a continuous cycle of observation, reflection, and planning that responds to each child’s individual learning journey.

Educators carefully observe student engagement, examine work samples, gauge competency with carefully designed, purposeful didactic resources/aids and use these insights to guide meaningful next steps. Feedback is ongoing and thoughtfully tailored, offering detailed insights into each student’s progress, growth, and emerging interests.

Participation in NAPLAN is facilitated and supported for years 3 and 5. Being a small school some years see us only have a small number of students participate.

However, when viewed cumulatively over time, student outcomes in Literacy and Numeracy demonstrate strong, consistent performance.

For broader context and information, visit the My School website: www.myschool.edu.au

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REPORTING AREA 4: Senior Secondary Outcomes

Senior Secondary Outcomes Not Applicable Central Coast Montessori Primary is a K–6 learning community. As we do not currently provide secondary education, this reporting area is not applicable.

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REPORTING AREA 5: Teacher Qualifications and Professional Learning

Dedicated Team,

Purposeful Practice

CCMPS Staff 2024

Meet our dedicated team of professionals who have contributed their expertise, passion, and collaboration to drive our success.

Teaching Staff

9

Full-time equivalent teaching staff

7

Non-teaching staff

5

Full-time equivalent non-teaching staff

3.3

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander staff

0

REPORTING AREA 5: Teacher Qualifications and Professional Learning

Teacher Professional Learning

& Accreditation At Central Coast Montessori, we believe that the growth of our educators directly enriches the learning of our students. Professional development is not only encouraged — it’s embedded into the culture of our learning community.

This year, all staff participated in regular professional development sessions, which included: Montessori Australia events NESA-accredited courses Child Protection & First Aid training Workshops focused on literacy, child development, and wellbeing Our Guides/Teachers also engaged in reflective practice, peer mentoring, and curriculum development planning, ensuring alignment between Montessori principles and NESA requirements.

Accreditation Snapshot All teaching staff held appropriate qualifications and participated in ongoing professional development relevant to both Montessori pedagogy and NESA curriculum requirements. The learning community is supported by a stable and collaborative team, with strong alignment to the school’s values and educational approach.

6 staff members maintain Proficient Teacher Accreditation We continue to support educators to complete and enhance both their Montessori and teacher training, ensuring that each learner at CCM is guided by passionate, knowledgeable professionals.

Our team remains committed to staying current, connected, and inspired — not just to meet regulatory expectations, but to model lifelong learning for the children in our care.

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REPORTING AREA 5: Teacher Qualifications and Professional Learning

Teachers Qualifications & Professional Learning

Description of the Professional Learning Activity

Number of Staff

First Aid - Childcare - HLTAID012

12

First Aid CPR - HLTAID009

12

Anaphylaxis Education

12

Child Protection & Mandatory Reporting

12

NSW Dept Education Code of Conduct

3

NSW Dept Education Understanding Behaviour

5

Dyslexia (Institute Aust)

3

Introduction to Literacy and Numeracy Progressions

3

Outdoor Learning Course (Coast Local Health District)

4

Childhood Diabetes

1

Curriculum: Walk Out, Walk On

6

Interoception and Autisim

1

Meeting Pr S Kohen (Fluency)

3

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REPORTING AREA 5: Teacher Qualifications and Professional Learning

Teachers Qualifications & Professional Learning

15

Description of the Professional Learning Activity

Number of Staff

Curriculum: Cosmic Education (MWEI)

5

Wellness: Rites of Passage (Dr A Rubenstien)

2

Wellness: Maiden Program

2

Girra Girra: Aboriginal Culture

4

NCCD Moderation for Schools

7

Leading Through Natural Disasters & Other Community Trauma

2

Therapeutic Storytelling

2

English K-2

5

Introducing the new NSW Primary Curriculum

5

AIS Governance Symposium

6

Mentally Healthy Communities (Beyond Blue)

2

Food Safety Supervisor

4

Montessori NSW Conference

12

Manifestations of Kids Grief/Needs of Bereaved Children

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

REPORTING AREA 6: Workforce Composition

Workforce Composition As of December 2024, Central Coast Montessori Primary employed 3 full-time and 3 part-time teachers who are responsible for delivering the curriculum. The following is a breakdown of their qualifications:

Teacher Accreditation Level of Accreditaion

Number of Teachers

Provisional

0

Proficient Teacher

6

Accreditation status of all teaching staff who are responsible for delivering the curriculum. (as defined by the Teacher Accreditation Act 2004)

Teacher Qualifications

Number of Teachers

Teachers having teacher education qualifications from a higher education institution within Australia or as recognised within the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEINOOSR) guidelines or;

6

Teachers having a bachelor’ s degree from a higher education institution within Australia or one recognised within the AEI-NOOSR guidelines but lack formal teacher education qualifications

0

* Note that the number of teachers falling within these two categories may not sum to the total number of teachers as reported in the previous accreditation table as some teachers with Conditional accreditation may not be included.

In 2024 staff participated in fortnightly professional learning sessions in conjunction with staff meetings.

Discussions included but not limited to, Workplace Health & Safety, child protection, communication and curriculum. Each teacher is involved in classroom observations where feedback to improve is given.

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REPORTING AREA 7: School Attendance

Student Attendance In 2024, the average student attendance rate at Central Coast Montessori Primary was 83%.

At CCM, we continue to prioritise strong, supportive relationships with families and take an individualised approach to understanding each child’s circumstances. We monitor attendance closely and communicate proactively with parents and carers when attendance concerns arise. Our procedures include prompt follow-up of unexplained absences, individualised support plans where appropriate, and ongoing collaboration with families to promote regular engagement with learning.

We acknowledge that regular school attendance is vital to each child’s academic and social development, and we remain committed to improving attendance through strong partnerships, open communication and an engaging Montessori environment that children are eager to return to each day.

For broader context and information, visit the My School website: www.myschool.edu.au

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

REPORTING AREA 8: Enrolment Policy

Enrolment Policy The Central Coast Montessori Primary School (CCMPS) is a small non-denominational and coeducation environment for children from K to Year 6. It currently offers Primary Montessori Program for children commencing at or close to 6 years of age. Commencement at the Primary level, at 6 years of age, is similar to commencement in Kindergarten of a traditional school. The program at CCMPS offers a blended Montessori Stage 2 environment (6-9yrs) and a Montessori Stage 3 environment (9-12yrs). Enrolment into CCMPS is pending the application process. All enrolment applications are processed in order of receipt, with the exception of: Children transitioning from the Central Coast Montessori Stage 1 environment and that have committed to the process Current siblings Children transferring from other Montessori schools Consideration is also given to the applicant and families support for the Montessori pedagogy and the applicant and families desire to commit to a 12 year Montessori primary and secondary education.

The application process for entry into CCMPS includes, but is not limited to; attending a Discovery Session prior to Expressing Interest in the school, making an application for enrolment, completing an application for enrolment form along with required attachments (school reports, teacher references, specialist/medical reports), completing the Intentional Guide Seminar, attending a classroom observation, attending an interview with the Principal and/or Head Guide and the student attending trial visit day/s.

Pending review and analysis by the enrolment committee of each of these requirements of the application process and a place being available an offer of place letter will be sent out, along with an invoice for a non-refundable enrolment placement fee. An offer of place letter cannot be sent out until all of the requirements have been met, however, if CCMPS is unable to offer a place for the applicant they can be notified in writing at any stage of the application process.

Enrolment Conditions

The full text of all the school’s Enrolment Policy can be accessed by request from the principal and from the CCM website. A full set of policies are held in the administration office for staff to refer to and via the staff intranet on Google drive.

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REPORTING AREA 9: Other School Policies

Other Policies

Central Coast Montessori maintains a range of policies that guide practice in areas related to student welfare, discipline, and grievance procedures. These policies are reviewed regularly and are available to families upon request or via the school’s website.

Student Welfare The school is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where each child’s wellbeing is prioritised. Our student welfare approach reflects Montessori principles of respect, trust, and independence, with a strong focus on social-emotional learning and child protection. Policies related to wellbeing include the Child Safety Code of Conduct, Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy and the Anti-Bullying Procedure.

Discipline Discipline at Central Coast Montessori is grounded in mutual respect and guided self-regulation.

Rather than punitive measures, we support children to understand natural consequences, develop responsibility, and restore relationships. Behaviour is managed through calm, consistent adult modelling and clear boundaries. There is no use of corporal punishment, nor is it permitted by others. Appropriate Behaviour Policy (Discipline) Complaints and Grievances Our clear and respectful Complaint Handling Policy is in place to ensure concerns are addressed promptly, fairly, and in line with our values. Families are encouraged to raise concerns through appropriate channels, and all complaints are handled confidentially with an emphasis on resolution and improvement.

Community In addition to core welfare and operational policies, the school upholds a strong commitment to community culture through key frameworks such as the Community Code of Conduct, Whistleblower Policy, and Discrimination, Harassment & Bullying Statement. These policies ensure that all members of the learning community — staff, students, and families — understand their rights and responsibilities in fostering a respectful, inclusive, and accountable environment.

All policies are reviewed on a regular basis and updated to remain consistent with legislation and best practice. The full text of all the school’s policies can be accessed by request from the principal and from the CCM website. A full set of policies are held in the administration office for staff to refer to and via the staff intranet on Google drive.

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REPORTING AREA 10: School-determined Priority Areas for Improvement

Priority Areas for Improvement At Central Coast Montessori, continuous reflection and improvement are embedded in our practice. In 2024, our key focus areas included: 1. Supporting Transitions We prioritised the refinement of transition processes from Montessori Preschool into the Primary environment, and between Cycles 2 and 3. Our aim was to reduce adjustment fatigue and promote a natural progression in learning, independence, and classroom culture.

2. Strengthening School Management Systems We began investigating comprehensive school management systems to support the evolving needs of our community. This work focused on platforms and processes to streamline administration and ensure compliance. Key areas included management of student and family records, tracking staff qualifications, licences and clearances, attendance monitoring, family communications, facilities oversight, curriculum documentation, staff allocation, NESA compliance, and centralised reporting. Our aim is to improve operational efficiency and free educators to focus on guiding the child.

3. Expanding Visibility and Community Awareness We initiated efforts to strengthen our presence within the Montessori and wider education communities. This included marketing and communications planning to better share the strengths and values of our learning community. We worked to more clearly express our approach — highlighting our environments, the professionalism of our Guides, and the developmental outcomes for children — with the goal of building understanding and welcoming increased enrolments aligned with our culture.

4. Strengthening the Family–CCMPS Partnership Framework In 2024, we focused on clarifying and reinforcing the shared understanding of the partnership between families and Central Coast Montessori Primary. This included reviewing and actively managing our Community Code of Conduct to ensure alignment with the respectful, collaborative values that underpin our learning community. We worked to ensure expectations were clearly communicated and consistently upheld — supporting parents to engage positively and constructively with the school. Just as importantly, we maintained open and professional channels for concerns to be raised, including formal grievance processes that respect the dignity of all involved and encourage resolution through mutual understanding.

This ongoing work reflects our belief that trust, transparency, and shared purpose are essential to supporting the best outcomes for children.

5. Planning for Sustainable Growth We began long-term strategic planning for sustainable growth and future enrolment, including a review of facilities, staffing and succession planning to support the school’s continued development.

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REPORTING AREA 11: Initiatives Promoting Respect and Responsibilities

Initiatives Promoting Respect & Responsibilities At Central Coast Montessori, respect and responsibility are not taught as isolated values — they are lived experiences embedded in our daily practice. These principles are fostered through the structure of our mixed-age classrooms, shared environments, and the Montessori philosophy itself, which places trust in the child and nurtures independence with accountability.

In 2024, our initiatives to support these values included: – Guided social learning, where children are supported to resolve conflict peacefully, use respectful language, and take responsibility for their actions – Care of the environment, where children actively participate in looking after their classrooms, gardens, animals, and shared spaces – Community celebrations and cultural events such as Cultural Day, which promote inclusion, empathy, and understanding of diverse perspectives – Ongoing emphasis on grace and courtesy, which support respectful behaviour, social confidence, and awareness of others – Family–CCMPS partnership conversations, which reinforce shared values and encourage consistency between home and school expectations These practices help create a culture where students feel safe, respected, and empowered to contribute positively — both within the school and in the broader world.

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

REPORTING AREA 12: Parent, Student and Teacher Satisfaction

Parent, Student & Guide Satisfaction Central Coast Montessori Primary School was founded through community initiative and continues to thrive because of the strong relationships between families, educators, and students.

In 2024, the school maintained a strong emphasis on community involvement. Parents were regularly invited to participate in classroom activities, school events, and feedback opportunities. Our regular touchpoints — including termly parent gatherings, Show Me Showcase events, Intentional Guide seminars, and Cultural Day — encouraged collaboration and open communication.

While no formal satisfaction survey was conducted during the year, feedback was collected through a variety of channels, including parent/guide collaborative reflection documents and associated meetings, direct communications, guided and unguided observation bookings and classroom conversations. This feedback consistently reflected high levels of satisfaction with the school’s child-centred approach, the dedication of its educators, and the positive and respectful learning environment.

Guides reported feeling well supported professionally and personally, citing strong collegial relationships, a shared sense of purpose, and meaningful engagement in curriculum development and decision-making processes. Students demonstrated high engagement, pride in their learning environments, and a strong sense of belonging within the learning community.

Ongoing reflection and improvement are central to our Montessori approach, and we will continue to seek regular and diverse forms of feedback from our community to ensure our practices remain responsive and inclusive.

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Sustainable Prosperity

Solid Growth, 23

CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

And we are committed to sustainable prosperity: a thriving, resilient community where people — not just numbers — come first.

REPORTING AREA 13: Summary Financial Information

Summary financial information Fees & Private Income

State Recurrent Grants

Commonwealth Grants

Fees & Private Income 32.2%

The following is a summary of the financial information for Central Coast Montessori Primary School for the 2024 school year, presented as required under the Education Act 1990 (NSW). It outlines the allocation of income and expenditure across key operational areas.

Commonwealth Grants 54.3%

State Recurrent Grants 13.6%

Salaries, allowances & related expenses

Capital expenditure

Non-salary Expenses

Recurrent Income 2024

CCMPS remains committed to the careful and responsible management of resources, ensuring the continued delivery of a high-quality Montessori education while planning sustainably for the future.

Non-salary Expenses 30%

Capital expenditure 0.9%

Salaries, allowances & related expenses 69.1%

Recurrent Expenditure 2024 WWW.CCM.NSW.EDU.AU

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REPORTING AREA 13: Summary Financial Information

Summary financial information Recurrent / Capital Income

Commonwealth Recurrent Grants

$774,802

54.3%

Fees & Private Income

$459,333

32.2%

State Recurrent Grants

$193,701

13.6%

$1,078,745

69.1%

Capital Expenditure

$14,458

.9%

Non-salary Expenses

$467,846

30%

Recurrent / Capital Expenditure

Salaries, Allowances, Related Expenditure

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

Closing Reflection At Central Coast Montessori, 2024 was a year of meaningful progress, quiet transformation, and deepened connection. We continued to strengthen our practices, clarify our purpose, and create an environment where children can grow into capable, curious, and compassionate contributors.

We offer our heartfelt thanks to the Board of Directors for their thoughtful governance and steadfast support. Their commitment to Montessori principles and future-focused leadership ensures that our learning community remains strong, sustainable, and visionary.

To our dedicated staff and Guides, we extend our deepest appreciation. Your professionalism, warmth, and unwavering belief in each child are the heart of everything we do.

We are also grateful to our families, volunteers, and the many Friends of CCM who contribute in countless ways — from community events to classroom support, working bees to morning teas.

Your generosity, presence, and spirit of service enrich our community and strengthen the shared foundation we offer our children.

As we look toward 2025, we do so with clarity and conviction — honouring our mission to guide each child not just in the moment, but for life.

With gratitude, The Central Coast Montessori Primary Leadership Team

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CCM ANNUAL REFLECTION 2024

Sawubona!

CENTRAL COAST MONTESSORI A vibrant learning exchange, birth/pre-K/primary.

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