Where little hands grow big ideas
Nestled in the heart of the Riddells Creek, Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool offers an authentic, holistic approach within a warm, prepared environment. Our program is dedicated to nurturing each child’s independence, curiosity, and self-respect, while cultivating self-discipline and a deep consideration for others. Through purposeful Montessori materials, we inspire children to become responsible, inquisitive, and self-motivated learners.
in our community
A holistic home for early learning
Since 1985, the Macedon Ranges Montessori Pre-School has offered families an alternative to mainstream schooling: the Montessori Method. We operate from the historic former Riddells Creek Primary School building, lovingly restored by dedicated parents under the guidance of a steering committee.
We provide a holistic approach within a supportive environment that nurtures each child's self-respect. Our program develops self-discipline, consideration for others, and care for the world around them — using specifically designed Montessori materials.
Five principles guiding every day
At the heart of Montessori is a deep respect for the child's innate desire to learn and grow — the freedom to move, to choose, and to discover at their own pace.
Respect for Students
Teachers take children's curiosity seriously and foster independence, helping them learn for themselves.
The Absorbent Mind
In the first six years, children effortlessly soak up information from the world around them.
Sensitive Periods
Educators observe and identify windows when a child's capacity for certain skills is heightened.
Prepared Environment
A meticulously structured, child-sized space designed to promote freedom of choice.
Auto-education
Environment, genuine choice and respect work together to spark a lifelong love of learning.
Areas that prepare a lifetime of learning
Self-correcting, progressive materials introduce one new challenge at a time — an individualised journey where the child's own interests set the pace.
Practical Life
Familiar tasks like pouring and cleaning build fine motor skills and independence.
Sensorial
Classification and discrimination exercises that refine all five senses.
Mathematics
Quantity and symbol introduce the decimal system and basic operations.
Language
Phonics and expression foster early literacy and confident communication.
Culture
Science, geography and the arts nurture tolerance and global citizenship.
Victorian Government Free Kinder Approved
We are proud to participate in the Victorian Government’s Free Kinder initiative, providing up to 15 hours of fully funded kindergarten per week for both Three and Four Year Old programs. Led by qualified Early Childhood Teachers, our program blends the renowned Montessori approach with a rich, play-based curriculum that prepares children for school and life, all while saving your family up to $2,101 a year. In addition, we offer a paid transitional Early Learner's Program for two year olds to prepare for kindergarten.
An education built around your child
Children learn at their own pace and develop genuine autonomy — feeling safe, respected and free to explore their own interests, so they can realise their full potential and become caring members of their family and community.Arrange a Visit
Montessori qualified & truly dedicated
Our center is led by VIT-registered Early Childhood Teachers, alongside Diploma and Certificate III qualified educators—each bringing over a decade of hands-on experience. We are strictly committed to employing Montessori-trained staff because the Method is the true core of our vision and practice.
Taia Ly
Taia holds a Bachelor of Education (Primary) as well as a Diploma of Early Childhood and Primary Education (Montessori). She has worked with us for many years and possesses valuable experience in Montessori classrooms giving our children authentic learning.
Nilmini Wijesooriya
Nilmini has been working in early childhood education for over 20 years. During that time she developed a passion for the Montessori method and admires its foucus on giving children foundational skills needed for life. She believes in providing children with opportunities to explore and discover the world around them.
Dhanushka Molligoda
Dhanushka has worked in the early childhood sector for over 12 years and mainly practiced the Montessori method of learning. Originally from Sri Lanka, she moved to Melbourne in 2014. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.
Come and see our environment
The best way to understand Montessori is to step inside a prepared environment. We'd love to show you around.
Opening Hours
- Monday – Friday9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- SaturdayClosed
- SundayClosed
Get in Touch
- 61 Main Road, Riddells Creek, VIC 3431
- 0447 733 481
- Email the pre-school