Diploma of Montessori Early Childhood Education (11206NAT)
COURSE ID:
Dive into the transformative world of Montessori education with the Diploma of Montessori Early Childhood Education. This program provides an in-depth understanding of the theory and practical skills needed to deliver a Montessori education program for children aged 0–6 years.
INVESTMENT
$9,900.00
Upfront payment or tailored payment plans.
Government funding may be available. Learn more
Advance your Career with the Diploma of Montessori Early Childhood Education
Are you ready to make a deeper impact on the lives of children? The Diploma of Montessori Early Childhood Education is your gateway to mastering the Montessori philosophy and practice for children aged 0–6 years. This advanced program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to lead, inspire, and innovate in Montessori education.
Blended learning flexibility
This course combines 120 hours of face-to-face or live online training with 550 hours in an early childhood setting. You’ll also complete 350 hours of guided independent learning to fit your schedule.
Personalised support
Your dedicated trainers are available through phone, email, or during face-to-face sessions. Access all your resources and assessments via a personalised online portal, ensuring a smooth and supported learning journey.
What you’ll learn
Throughout this diploma, you’ll master:
- Developing and refining sensory, cognitive, and mathematical skills.
- Designing Montessori learning environments and programs.
- Supporting language development and practical life skills.
- Guiding child behaviour using Montessori principles.
- Engaging with stakeholders to create a collaborative learning environment.
Career Pathways
Graduates of this diploma are equipped to step confidently into leadership roles within Montessori and Early Childhood Education environments. When combined with an ACECQA-recognised qualification, the course supports meeting NQF requirements for regulated childcare services.
This diploma prepares you to lead Montessori programs, mentor and support educators, and manage stakeholder education initiatives—positioning you as a capable and respected leader in the field.
Meet the trainers
Over 115 years of combined knowledge
in Early Childhood, Montessori, and VET training
Our qualified trainers are passionate early childhood professionals with real-world experience and a deep commitment to your success. You'll benefit from personalised guidance, practical insights, and a nurturing, supportive environment where you are valued and empowered to thrive.
How is the course delivered?
Theory Sessions run once a month:
Live Online (Microsoft Teams): One Thursday night a Month from 5:30pm – 8:30pm.
Practical Montessori Didactic Materials Sessions:
Eight Mile Plains (face-to-face): One Saturday a Month from 8:00 am – 3:00pm
Live Online (Microsoft Teams): One Saturday a Month from 8:00 am – 4.30pm
Face-to-face at our Brisbane locations
Held at our South East Queensland campuses in small, interactive classes. Hands-on practice in an Early Childhood Environment.
Virtual Learning Campus
Live, real-time virtual classes with your trainer. Full access to online resources and learning portal. Flexible study that fits around work and life.
Course Units
All Learners are provided with a set of learning guides and books, as well as online guided learning via our learner management system. During the course, each Learner will have access to their own personal portal where they can download and receive their assessments, and can access support from their trainers via the phone, email, or face-to-face during classes. This ensures that learners have full support from the college.
NAT11206001 – Facilitate the Individual Child’s Cultural Development
NAT11206002 – Facilitate the Child’s Cognitive and Mathematical Development
NAT11206003 – Apply Montessori Core Principles and Practices in a Child’s Development Program
NAT11206004 – Develop and Maintain the Learning Environment
NAT11206005 – Design and Develop Montessori Learning Programs
NAT11206006 – Develop and Enhance the Language and Communication Skills of the Child
NAT11206007 – Develop Strategies to Facilitate Practical Life Skills
NAT11206008 -Develop and Refine the Child’s Sensory Processing
NAT11206009 – Manage Stakeholder Education Programs
NAT11206010 – Strategically Support and Guide the Child’s Behaviour Using Montessori Principles and Practices
Note: This course does not meet National Quality Framework (NQF) qualifications independently. Pair this program with an ACECQA-recognised qualification to meet regulated childcare service requirements.
Duration & Scheduling
This program is delivered part-time over a period of 1 – 2 years.
Students must attend 30 hours of theory training as well as 90 hours of didactical (Montessori material) training. This training is live online with a Montessori Trainer/Assessor.
As part of the requirements for this course, Learners must organise access to an Early Childhood Education and Care environment with a Montessori philosophy, to complete the observation and practicum in a Montessori classroom.
Students must also complete:
- 350 hours of classroom practicum – performing the activities outlined in the performance criteria of the units during a period of at least 350 hours of work in at least one regulated education and care service with a Montessori philosophy
- 100 hours of observation within a 0 – 3 environment
- 100 hours of observation within a 3 – 6 environment
Methods of Study
We use competency-based assessment for all assessment activities. Students prove competency with demonstrations of written knowledge and practical skills. We take timelines into consideration for practical skills and students must meet the criteria as deemed industry competent by the assessor.
Formative evidence will be assessed in the form of an Assessment Task Portfolio. The Assessment Task Portfolio uses several assessment tools to accommodate the student’s individual needs. The assessment types include:
- Written Assessments
- Reflective Questions
- Workplace Tasks
- Third Party Reports
- Observation Tools
- Recognition of Prior Learning
Entry Requirements
There are no academic pre-requisites for this course. However, we require students to take a Language, Literacy and Numeracy test at the time of enrolment.
Suitability for Enrolment
To succeed in our accredited Early Childhood and Montessori courses, students need to meet certain suitability requirements. These are designed to ensure learners are well-prepared and supported throughout their studies.
Prospective students should have:
- A genuine interest in working with young children and a commitment to fostering their development
- A readiness to engage in both practical and theoretical learning
- Basic literacy, numeracy, and digital skills to participate in course activities and complete assessments
- The ability to access a suitable device (such as a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet) with reliable internet and video conferencing capabilities for online sessions and trainer support
- For courses that include practical placement, students must also be eligible to obtain a Working with Children Check (or equivalent) and meet any relevant regulatory requirements for work in education and care settings.
We encourage individuals who are passionate about early childhood education — whether just starting out or looking to formalise their skills — to apply. Our team will work with you to make sure you have the support needed to achieve your goals.
How We’ll Support You:
From enrolment to completion, we’re here to help you succeed:
- AXcelerate Learner Portal – Your personal learning hub for course materials, assessment submissions, and trainer communication.
- Personalised student support – Available in person. or online via Microsoft Teams for learning help, technical support, and study advice.
- Direct access to your trainer – Message your trainer anytime through AXcelerate for guidance and feedback.
- Ongoing engagement – Our trainers and admin team will check in regularly, keeping you motivated and on track.
- Flexible learning options – So you can study in a way that suits your schedule.
- Peer support and learning community – Connect with other students for encouragement and shared learning.
What past participants say
Frequently asked questions
You can complete your placement hours through volunteering or casual work while you study.
Typically between 1–2 years part-time, depending on your pace and schedule.
Yes! Many of our students balance employment or volunteering with their studies.
INVESTMENT
$9,900.00
You’ll make four smaller payments, one every three months. Each payment is billed in advance to help you stay on track.