About Growing Stars Montessori School
A nurturing childcare centre in Flinders supporting families across Shellharbour with a Montessori approach to early learning.
About Our Childcare Centre
A place where children feel safe, supported and confident
At Growing Stars Montessori, we provide a warm and caring environment where children are encouraged to learn, explore and grow at their own pace.
We understand how important it is to find the right childcare for your family. Our goal is to create a space where children feel safe, valued and inspired, while parents feel confident knowing their child is supported each day.
Meet Carey
Carey is the owner and directress of Growing Stars Montessori and has worked in early childhood education for over 23 years.
She is a qualified Montessori teacher with a Montessori Diploma for children aged 2 to 6 years, as well as a Lower Elementary Montessori qualification for children aged 6 to 9 years.
Carey was drawn to Montessori because she believes every child learns and develops at their own pace. Her passion is creating a calm, respectful and nurturing environment where children can build independence, confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of learning.
As a parent herself, Carey has also experienced the benefits of Montessori firsthand. Her own children attended Montessori during their younger years, which strengthened her belief in the approach and the impact it can have on a child’s confidence, responsibility and love of learning.
Carey's Philosphy
Carey’s philosophy is to provide an authentic Montessori environment that supports the natural growth and development of every child.
At Growing Stars Montessori, children are encouraged to learn, explore and achieve at their own pace in a prepared environment that supports their individual strengths and abilities.
Carey believes strong relationships between educators, children and families are an essential part of early learning. Open communication, trust and a strong sense of community are at the heart of the centre.
She also values children developing a connection with nature. Through outdoor play, gardening experiences and caring for class pets, children are given opportunities to build responsibility, compassion, mindfulness and respect for the world around them.
Montessori Approach
Montessori learning encourages children to become confident, capable and independent learners.
At Growing Stars Montessori, children are supported through hands-on learning, child-led activities and carefully prepared environments that allow them to explore with purpose.
Our approach focuses on:
• independence and confidence
• hands-on learning experiences
• curiosity and problem solving
• social and emotional development
• respect for others and the environment
Connected to nature
Growing Stars Montessori has been carefully created to feel warm, welcoming and connected to nature.
From natural outdoor spaces and gardens to calm classroom environments, every part of the centre has been designed with children’s wellbeing, curiosity and development in mind.
The outdoor environment gives children space to explore, move, care for plants, connect with animals and develop an appreciation for the natural world.
