Montessori Childcare in SA
South Australia has a well-established Montessori community, with several long-standing Montessori schools and early learning centres across Adelaide and selected regional areas. Families in SA often choose Montessori for its calm environments, hands-on learning materials, and strong focus on independence and emotional development.
Whether you’re researching Montessori programs for toddlers, preschoolers, or early primary-aged children, this page gives you an overview of Montessori early learning in South Australia.
Montessori Childcare in SA: What You Can Expect
Montessori services in South Australia operate under the National Quality Framework (NQF) and align with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF v2.0). Montessori centres and preschools across SA typically offer:
- Peaceful, structured learning environments
- Mixed-age classrooms (often 3–6 years)
- Hands-on, sensory-rich Montessori materials
- Educators trained in Montessori methods and child development
- Predictable routines that help children regulate emotions and behaviour
Many SA Montessori programs serve children from infancy through to primary school, providing a consistent and supportive learning pathway.
Read More: Learn how Montessori and the NQF work together to improve outcomes for your child.
Montessori Childcare in SA – Notable Options
Below are examples of well-known Montessori services and schools in South Australia.
The Grove Montessori (Adelaide)
A respected Montessori early learning centre offering programs for toddlers and preschool-aged children, with a strong focus on practical life and sensorial learning.
Southern Montessori School (O’Sullivan Beach)
A well-established Montessori school offering preschool through primary programs in Adelaide’s southern suburbs.
Jescott Montessori Preschool (Magill)
A long-running Montessori preschool known for authentic Montessori materials and experienced educators.
Montessori Children’s Centre (Adelaide Region)
Montessori-inspired early learning centres offering programs across Adelaide’s north, west, and southern suburbs.
Regional Montessori-Inspired Options
The Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and select country areas have Montessori-inspired or hybrid early learning programs with growing community interest.
How to Choose a Montessori Centre in SA
When visiting Montessori services across SA, look for:
- Authentic Montessori materials displayed neatly on open shelves
- Collaborative, mixed-age classrooms
- Educators who observe more than they direct
- A calm, ordered room layout
- Clear daily rhythms that support concentration and security
- Strong connections between EYLF outcomes and Montessori curriculum areas
High-quality Montessori services will be transparent about their practices and eager to demonstrate how Montessori supports children’s development.
Why SA Families Choose Montessori
South Australian families often choose Montessori because it supports:
- Independence and problem-solving
- Emotional regulation through predictable routines
- Self-paced, meaningful learning
- Respectful educator-child relationships
- Smooth transitions into primary schooling
Adelaide’s strong Montessori presence makes it easier for families to choose a long-term Montessori pathway.
Montessori Childcare in SA FAQs
Q: Is Montessori childcare regulated in SA?
A: Yes. All Montessori services in South Australia operate under the National Quality Framework (NQF) and are assessed by the Education Standards Board (ESB SA).
Q: What age can children start Montessori childcare in SA?
A: Most services enrol toddlers from around 2 years old, with preschool programs commonly starting at age 3.
Q: Are there Montessori schools in Adelaide?
A: Yes. Adelaide has a number of Montessori preschools and schools offering early learning through to primary programs.
Q: Do SA Montessori services follow EYLF v2.0?
A: Yes. All Montessori early learning programs in SA integrate EYLF outcomes with Montessori materials and activities.