Montessori conferences in Australia serve as vital platforms for educators, administrators, and enthusiasts to connect, share insights, and explore the evolving landscape of Montessori education. In 2025, several significant events are shaping the discourse, offering opportunities for professional development and community engagement.
Best Practice in the Modern World Conference – Gold Coast (Completed)
Held on May 3–4, 2025, in the Gold Coast, Queensland, the “Best Practice in the Modern World – Putting the Pieces Together” conference brought together a diverse group of Montessori professionals. Organized by Montessori Australia, the event featured a lineup of esteemed speakers:
- Jason Alexander: Co-owner of I Am Education with over 18 years in Early Childhood Education, specializing in guiding children’s behaviors.
- Rachel Cavanagh: Educational therapist focusing on neurodiversity and practical activities for emotional regulation.
- Susan Chahwan: Experienced Montessori educator demonstrating Dr. Montessori’s theory in action.
- Dr. Kaylene Henderson: Child psychiatrist and parenting expert.
- Rhonda Livingston: National Education Leader at the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).
- Dr. Rebecca Pelton: President of the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE).
- Mark Powell: Director of Education Services at Montessori Australia with over 27 years of experience.
- Catherine Reed Holmes: Advocate for risk-taking in education to foster independence.
- Belinda Smith: Nutritionist focusing on the role of nutrition in children’s learning and behavior.
- Lucette van Someren Boyd: Early childhood teacher and Montessori inclusion expert.(events.montessori.org.au, events.montessori.org.au)
Hosted by Oliver Heatherington-Paige, the conference emphasized integrating Montessori principles in contemporary settings.
Upcoming Conferences
1. 2025 National Conference: Best Practice in the Modern World – Perth
- Dates: May 17–18, 2025
- Location: The Montessori School Kingsley, Perth, WA
- Organizer: Montessori Australia (MACTE Accredited institution)
- Theme: Best Practice in the Modern World – Putting the Pieces Together
This conference aims to explore best practices in early childhood education, emphasizing risk-taking, digital technology, holistic approaches, and connecting with children in a rapidly changing world. Attendees can look forward to inspiring keynote sessions, workshops on innovative teaching strategies, Montessori therapy, mental health, and networking opportunities with educators and industry experts.
Keynote Speakers Include:
- Prof. Mark Williams: Neuroscientist discussing the importance of real connection in education.
- Rachel Cavanagh: Sharing methods to support neuro-diverse children in modern educational settings.
- Lucette van Someren Boyd: Exploring Montessori therapy and its practical applications.
- Mark Powell: Addressing the integration of technology in Montessori classrooms.
- Catherine Reed Holmes: Discussing the role of risk-taking in fostering independence.
- Dr. Rebecca Pelton: Highlighting the future of Montessori educator preparation and accreditation.(events.montessori.org.au, events.montessori.org.au, events.montessori.org.au)
The event will also feature a networking mixer and a conference party to celebrate the success of the conference.
2. Montessori International Convention (MIC 2025) – Sydney
- Dates: October 31 – November 2, 2025
- Location: Novotel Sydney Brighton Beach, Sydney, Australia
- Organizer: Montessori Australia (MACTE Accredited institution)
MIC 2025 promises an inspiring experience, featuring a lineup of speakers and workshops exploring advancements in brain science, holistic childhood development, sustainability challenges, and innovative educational thinking. The convention will also host the third annual Recognition Awards Gala Dinner to honor outstanding Montessorians in the Asia-Pacific region.(events.montessori.org.au)
Confirmed Speakers Include:
- Maxine Bergh: CEO of Amiga Montessori.
- Christine Harrison: AMI Leadership Trainer.
- Barbara Langford: CEO of SA Montessori.
- Gavin McCormack: Co-Founder of Upschool.
- Dimitri Nicolaou: Co-Founder of Central Coast Montessori.
- Dr. Eva Nislev: Trainer at Montessori Institute.
- Lucette van Someren Boyd: Montessori inclusion expert.
- Dr. Helen Street: Author and founder of Positive Schools.
- Dr. Mark Williams: Neuroscientist.
- Chris Willemsen: Global Brand Ambassador for Nienhuis Montessori.(events.montessori.org.au, Humanitix – Tickets for good, not greed)
The convention aims to unite minds and shape futures by rethinking education and embracing new possibilities in Montessori practice.
Conclusion
The Montessori conferences in Australia for 2025 offer rich opportunities for educators and stakeholders to engage with contemporary challenges and innovations in Montessori education. Whether reflecting on the recent Gold Coast conference or anticipating the upcoming events in Perth and Sydney, these gatherings serve as pivotal moments for professional growth and community building within the Montessori landscape.
Note: This article is intended to provide information about Montessori conferences in Australia for 2025 and is not affiliated with or promoting any specific event or organization.
