Barrenjoey Montessori School. Nurturing the individual and community.
Educating children holistically from birth to 12 years of age.
Welcome to BMS
One of my earliest memories is reaching for a puzzle map at my Montessori preschool. I can still picture the map cabinet under the big classroom window and the way the morning sun would stream through. I remember an older child gently helping me pull the puzzle out, and the pride I felt knowing I was ready for such a "big" piece of work. That small moment left a lasting imprint, a feeling of belonging, purpose, and excitement about learning.
That little Montessori preschool was started by a group of parents who wanted something different for their children. My mum was one of them.
Now, to be part of Barrenjoey Montessori School, a community-based, independent Montessori school founded in a similar way, feels like coming full circle.
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I recognise the passion behind a school like this: the founding families who sought an alternative approach to education and had the courage and tenacity to make it happen; the teachers and staff who are deeply committed to guiding children in a respectful and meaningful way; the Board members who volunteer their time to uphold the school’s vision; and most of all, the children, who arrive each day with joy and curiosity.
There is something powerful about a Montessori classroom. It offers a place where each child is seen, heard, and valued as an individual. It is rich with sensory experience, intellectual challenge, and emotional growth. This is what I experienced as a child, and it is what I see at BMS every day.
For over 40 years, Barrenjoey Montessori School has been delivering an authentic Montessori education to children on the Northern Beaches. The community here is one that people are proud to be part of, it is strong and lasting. I’m honoured to be part of its story.
As a Principal, I believe in leading with heart, staying connected to what matters most: the children, the values of Montessori education and the relationships that make up our school community. Leadership in this context is about working alongside others, listening deeply, and supporting a shared mission with humility and care.
I am honoured to work alongside a passionate, dedicated and skilled team, and together we contribute to something greater than ourselves: a global movement that honours peace, independence, and the potential of every child.
Montessori invites us all, educators, children, and families alike, into a way of being that is intentional, respectful, and profoundly connected to both our local and global communities.
I invite you to visit, to see what makes this such a special place, why so many children and adults look back on their time here as among the happiest of their lives. And when you come, I’d love to show you where the puzzle maps are.
Melissa Chandler, Principal
Why Montessori?
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Individualised Learning
We support each child to reach their full potential, progressing through the standard curriculum at their own pace. Our guides observe closely, adapting strategies and timing to meet each child’s unique learning and developmental needs.
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Scientifically Devised
Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to support physical, academic, social, and emotional growth. Hands-on, sensorial materials help children progress from early playgroup experiences to mastering complex concepts by the end of Primary.
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Freedom Within Limits
Our classrooms give children the freedom to explore and learn within thoughtful boundaries. This nurtures independence, self-motivation, and time management, while respecting each child’s focus, interests, and physical needs to enhance learning outcomes.
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Mixed-Age Classes
Our Montessori classrooms group children across a three-year age span, fostering cooperation, leadership, and peer learning. Children thrive by mentoring, connecting with others, and sharing their skills—just like in the real world.
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Holistic Education
We place equal emphasis on nurturing social skills like empathy, communication, and conflict resolution, fostering kindness, respect, and grace. The result is a calm, thoughtful, and harmonious classroom environment.
Our Classes
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The 3-Year Cycle
Multi-age classrooms reflect the diversity of our wider community, where the mix of ages, abilities and backgrounds offers numerous benefits for all learners
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Playgroup
(Birth - 3yrs)
Learn along with your child and support their natural development right from the start with our infant and toddler programs for children from birth to 3 years, accompanied by their parent.
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Preschool
(3-6yrs)
Nurture curiosity, independence and creativity, developing vital skills for future learning with our authentic Montessori preschool program for children aged 3–6 years.
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Lower Primary
(6-9yrs)
Create strong foundations for life with a primary program that supports independent learning, real-world experiences and holistic development for children aged 6–12 years, split into 2 cycles: lower primary being 6-9yrs.
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Upper Primary
(9-12 yrs)
In the second half of Primary, children build on their skills - academic, emotional, social and physical - to complete the NESA curriculum and ready to join a variety of High Schools knowing how to self-manage and direct their time to deliver on task. With a strong understanding to themselves and others.
Connect with Us
Preschool/Primary Campus