Our History
Rockingham Montessori School, originally known as Rockingham Family School, was established in February 1985 by a group of dedicated parents and Elizabeth Sugars, the leader and founder of the School. Elizabeth inspired all by keeping the ‘TEAM Spirit’ foremost in everyone’s mind, TEAM being an acronym for ‘together everybody achieves more’. The School started in a small house in Safety Bay. Their success brought about the planning of a new school building and, in 1988, the School moved to Attwood Way.
The original parents moved on and the school community chose to adopt the Montessori philosophy in its entirety. This is unique as most Montessori schools are established as Montessori schools and grow with their children. The School employed Montessori-trained staff members, purchased Montessori materials and equipment, and put in place Montessori programs by the start of 1999.
At the urging of families who wished for their children to go onto a Montessori high school, in 2012, the School commenced the Adolescent Program. By 2013, our school was registered to deliver a comprehensive Montessori education program from 3 years of age through to 18 years of age.
The School purchased property in Karnup in 2014 and 2016, and is currently working towards registering and developing this site into a pre-kindy to Year 12 campus.
Liz Sugars, the founder of Rockingham Montessori Family School and Principal Vanessa Aikins. Photo taken in celebration of 30 years in 2015.
Photo taken in celebration of reaching 100 student milestone in 2011.
Students of the first Adolescent Program class upon commencement of the Program in 2012.
Arial photo taken in celebration of reaching 200 students milestone in 2016.
Early Years
0 - 3 Years
Our Infant Toddler Program (Playgroup) is the ideal way for your family to experience the Montessori philosophy and practice, while providing toddlers with a gentle transition to the Children’s House.
Children’s House
3 - 6 Years
Rockingham Montessori School has three Children’s House classrooms, named Dolphins, Penguins and Seahorse, reflecting our seaside location. Each is led by a dedicated and highly-trained Montessori teacher.
Primary Program
6 - 12 Years
Rockingham Montessori School has three Lower-Primary classrooms: Jelly Fish, Starfish and Sea Lions, continuing our ocean theme. Teachers are Montessori-trained and work with the help of an education assistant.
Adolescent Program
12 -18 Years
In Montessori’s third plane of development, from twelve to eighteen years old, the adolescent has a ‘humanistic mind’ eager to understand humanity and the contribution they can make to society.