Elizabeth Macarthur Montessori Pre School Association Inc.

Elizabeth Macarthur Montessori Pre School Association Inc. is a non-profit, non-denominational Australian organization dedicated to providing Montessori education to children aged three to six years in South Western Sydney. The association operates the Elizabeth Macarthur Montessori Pre-School, which emphasizes child-centred, open-ended learning in a safe and supportive environment.

History and Location

The Pre-School was established in 1997 in Camden, South Western Sydney, by a group of parents seeking high-quality Montessori education for their children. After initially operating from Camden, the Pre-School temporarily relocated to Campbelltown. Subsequently, the association purchased land in Raby, where it built permanent premises that opened in 2003. Since then, it has served the local community from this dedicated location.

Governance and Structure

Elizabeth Macarthur Montessori Pre School Association Inc. is administered by a volunteer board elected from the parent body. The association encourages a high level of parental participation and communication to support the educational staff and enhance children's development. This collaborative governance model allows parents to play an active role in shaping the educational experience in a way that differs from traditional schooling frameworks.

The association is incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act (NSW) 2009 and is classified as a medium-sized charity by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).

Educational Philosophy and Curriculum

The Pre-School's educational approach is grounded in the Montessori philosophy, integrated with the Australian Early Years Learning Framework. This approach respects each child's individual strengths, interests, learning styles, and capabilities. The curriculum fosters the principles of Being, Belonging, and Becoming, promoting courtesy, respect, and genuine regard for others within the school community.

The Pre-School is committed to inclusivity, welcoming families irrespective of race, religion, nationality, or ability. The curriculum respects cultural diversity and acknowledges different languages and traditions, reflecting a broad and equitable educational environment.

Community and Outreach

Elizabeth Macarthur Montessori Pre-School aims to help children find their place both as individuals and as contributing members of their groups. The school encourages trusting, respectful, and reciprocal relationships with families to support children's growth holistically.

Parents are invited to visit the Pre-School to experience its child-centred learning environment firsthand and explore how the program can foster their child’s confidence and social integration.

The Elizabeth Macarthur Montessori Pre School Association Inc. continues to provide a unique educational option within South Western Sydney, emphasizing parental involvement, respect for individuality, and a nurturing Montessori learning environment for early childhood development.

[1] https://elizabethmacarthurmontessori.nsw.edu.au [2] https://elizabethmacarthurmontessori.nsw.edu.au/about-us/ [3] https://www.neverbounce.com/company/elizabeth-macarthur-montessori/350760422 [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/88bbce49-39af-e811-a962-000d3ad24a0d/documents/b8a64ad7-3888-ea11-a811-000d3ad1f497 [5] https://acncpubfilesprodstorage.blob.core.windows.net/public/88bbce49-39af-e811-a962-000d3ad24a0d-16228d76-e602-4d21-b226-bae27252741a-Financial%20Report-ce5bff9a-e673-ea11-a811-000d3acb05bc-2018_Financial_Statements_-_Elizabeth_Macarthur_Montessori_Preschool.pdf