Montessori Australia National Conference 2026
Reflect.
Renew. Rediscover.
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Reflect—Renew—Rediscover—Montessori—Brisbane—Reflect—Renew—Rediscover—Montessori—Brisbane—
2026·Education·Community·Leadership·Purpose·Growth·2026·Education·Community·Leadership·Purpose·Growth·
About the Conference
Australia's premier
Montessori gathering
In an ever-changing educational landscape, the 2026 Montessori Australia National Conference invites you to step back from the daily routine — to reflect on our shared purpose, renew your passion for the prepared environment, and rediscover the profound potential within every child.
This isn't just a series of lectures; it's a gathering of minds. Whether you are an experienced Principal, a classroom Educator, Carer, or a newcomer to the Montessori method, this conference offers a curated space to deepen your practice and expand your perspective.
Keynote Insights
Hear from leaders bridging Dr Montessori's timeless legacy with modern neuroscientific research and contemporary classroom practice.
Workshops
Hands-on sessions covering classroom strategy, leadership excellence and community engagement.
Wellbeing
Restorative practices including mindfulness, deep thinking and breathwork for personal renewal.
Networking
Evening social and breakout sessions — build lasting connections with colleagues from across Australia.
Last Year's Event · MIC 2025
You'll be part of something
bigger than yourself.
bigger than yourself.
200+ educators. One shared purpose. Brisbane 2026 is next.
Your people are already here.Find your community at MANC 2026
Connections that last far beyond the weekend.
A global movement, meeting in Brisbane.Educators from across Australia and the world
Conference Highlights
Everything you'll experience
at MANC 2026
Neuroscience Meets Montessori
Keynote leaders bridge the gap between Dr Montessori's foundational philosophy and cutting-edge neuroscientific research — illuminating what the science of learning means for today's prepared environment.
KeynotePractical Classroom Strategies
Collaborative workshops focused on real, implementable classroom strategies. Leave with fresh tools, renewed confidence and the skills to transform your learning environment from day one back at school.
WorkshopWellbeing & Renewal
Come together for restorative practices including mindfulness, deep thinking and breathwork. These sessions are designed to help educators arrive refreshed, reconnected and ready to lead with purpose.
WellbeingLeadership Excellence
Sessions dedicated to Montessori school leadership — navigating governance, team culture, enrollment growth, and the strategic challenges facing principals and directors in the Australian context.
LeadershipEvening Social Event
A champagne and canapés welcome reception on Friday evening — the perfect atmosphere to meet fellow delegates from around the country, unwind and spark the conversations that last long after the conference ends.
SocialConference Recording
Can't attend in person? Access the full conference recording from $190 + GST. Watch sessions on demand, revisit keynotes, and share learnings with your whole team — available at $480 from 31 July.
VirtualLast Year's Event
You'll be in good company
Moments from MIC 2025 — a gathering of educators who showed up for the same reason you will.
Speakers & Presenters
Meet the minds shaping
this gathering
Tap any speaker to read their full biography and presentation details.
Master of Ceremonies · CEO, AMIGA-Montessori
Maxine Bergh
CEO, AMIGA-Montessori · Childcare Leader · Education Advocate
Max Bergh is the CEO of AMIGA-Montessori and has been with the organisation since 2006. She is passionate about leading a female-led family business in the childcare sector and is dedicated to providing children with top-quality education while ensuring the business's financial health and excellence.
Master of Ceremonies
CEO, AMIGA-Montessori
View full profile
Keynote Speakers
View profile
Dr Rebecca English
Getting the Montessori message out
Keynote · Day 1
View profile
Jessica Langford
Thrive to Guide: Educator & Child Wellbeing
Keynote · Day 2
View profile
Chris Peach
The Prepared Life: Our Montessori Journey
Keynote · Day 2
View profile
Tim Seldin
President, The Montessori Foundation
Keynote · Day 1
View profile
Jea Villanueva-Vallée
Supporting New Guides: Building Competency & Confidence
Keynote · Day 1
View profile
Dr Mark Williams
Neuroscience of a Good Life
Keynote · Day 1
Presenters & Workshop Leaders
View profile
Ms Ritika Anand
Panchtatva Montessori: Freedom & Kinesthetic Harmony
Workshop
View profile
Joanne Bosel
Bridging Generations: Intergenerational Learning
Workshop
View profile
Jack Butler
From Control to Trust
Workshop
View profile
Carmel Ellis
The Prepared Adult: A 40-Year Journey of Growth & Reflection
Speaker
View profile
Alexandra Ioannou
"Casting the net more widely": enriched evidence in your classrooms
Workshop
View profile
Stella Mandas
Bridging the Gap: Supporting Educators to Align & Thrive
Workshop
View profile
Gavin McCormack
Author · Educator · Co-Founder, Upschool
Closing Speaker
View profile
Ruchika Narula
From Teacher to Guide
Workshop
View profile
Himal Randeniya
How AI Can Make Us More Human: What We Choose to Protect
Workshop
View profile
Linda Rigby
Why Montessori is More Relevant Than Ever
Workshop
View profile
Kaye Skarratt
Using Tactile Materials for Phonological & Phonemic Awareness
Workshop
View profile
Naomi Whitehead
Unpacking the National Curriculum: Backward Mapping from Montessori
Workshop
Conference Program
Two days. Every moment matters.
Brisbane Airport Conference Centre · 31 July & 1 August 2026 · All times AEST
Indicative program — session times and speakers may vary. Final schedule confirmed closer to the event.
Day at a glance — click any block to jump
8:15 AM10:30 AM12:15 PM2:30 PM4:45 PM
7:00 AM
60 min
🧘 Bonus Wellbeing · Free
Morning Yoga Flow — Recharge. Reconnect. Thrive.
Dhara Oza
Book via QR · Free
A focus on wellbeing is at the core of this year's conference. 2026 has thrown many challenges around in the education sector, and we recognise how vital it is to take a moment for ourselves to pause and reset.
On the Friday and Saturday morning before the conference, Montessori Australia will be providing additional opportunities to recharge, reconnect, and thrive. We are proud to welcome Dhara Oza, a dedicated Yoga Teacher & Sound Healing Practitioner, who will guide us through mindful movement, breathwork, relaxation, and sound healing.
On the Friday and Saturday morning before the conference, Montessori Australia will be providing additional opportunities to recharge, reconnect, and thrive. We are proud to welcome Dhara Oza, a dedicated Yoga Teacher & Sound Healing Practitioner, who will guide us through mindful movement, breathwork, relaxation, and sound healing.
Friday, 31 July
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Morning Yoga Flow: Ground, Move & Awaken
What to bring: Comfortable clothing, a yoga mat, a water bottle, and an optional light jumper or blanket.
Saturday, 1 August
7:30 AM – 8:15 AM
Morning Flow: Energise & Set Your Intention
What to bring: Comfortable clothing, a water bottle, and an optional yoga mat.
Scan to book your spot
These sessions are entirely free to attend, but spaces are limited to ensure a calm and comfortable environment. Please scan the QR code and complete the form to confirm your place.
8:15 AM
30 min
Arrival
📋 Registration & Welcome Coffee
8:45 AM
15 min
Opening
MC Welcome to Conference
Maxine Bergh
Master of Ceremonies
Maxine Bergh
CEO, AMIGA-Montessori
Day 1 · 8:45 – 9:00 AM
Max will guide delegates through both days of MANC 2026 as our Master of Ceremonies, bringing her leadership experience, warmth and commitment to Montessori excellence.
9:00 AM
15 min
Welcome Address
Education Minister's Welcome
Julian Leeser
Shadow Minister for Education
Julian Leeser
Shadow Minister for Education · Federal Member for Berowra
Day 1 · 9:00 – 9:15 AM
Julian Leeser is the Shadow Minister for Education and Federal Member for Berowra. A Sydney-born lawyer and community leader, Julian was elected to Federal Parliament in 2016 after senior roles at the Australian Catholic University and the Menzies Research Centre. He was the youngest councillor in Australia when elected to Woollahra Council at age 19 and is deeply connected to his community through a wide range of local organisations. Julian is the first Jewish person elected to the House of Representatives from New South Wales for the Liberal Party.
9:15 AM
45 min
Keynote
Neuroscience of a Good Life
Dr Mark Williams
Neuroscientist
Dr Mark Williams
Neuroscientist · Bestselling Author
Day 1 · 9:15 – 10:00 AM
Dr Mark Williams is an internationally recognised neuroscientist and bestselling author. Drawing on decades of research, he reveals the brain's extraordinary potential and how modern environments can either support or undermine it.
His latest book Screen Smart Children, co-authored with Gavin McCormack, is a #1 bestseller and leading resource for educators navigating the digital age.
His latest book Screen Smart Children, co-authored with Gavin McCormack, is a #1 bestseller and leading resource for educators navigating the digital age.
10:00 AM
45 min
🧘 Wellbeing
Wellbeing Activity
Day 1 · 10:00 – 10:45 AM
Details to be confirmed.
10:45 AM
30 min
Keynote
Supporting New Guides: A 30-Day Strategy for Building Competency and Confidence
Jea Villanueva-Vallée
Guidepost Global
Jea Villanueva-Vallée
Senior VP, Guidepost Global Education · RIE® Associate
Day 1 · 10:45 – 11:15 AM
Jea explores how schools and organisations can strategically support new Montessori guides in their critical first weeks and months — a structured approach to building both competency and confidence from the very beginning.
11:15 AM
30 min
Break
☕ Morning Tea & Networking
11:45 AM
45 min
Concurrent Workshops
Choose Your Track
Day 1 · 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM · Choose one track
Naomi Whitehead
Session 1
Unpacking the National Curriculum: Backward Mapping from Montessori Lessons to Learning
Rutika Anand
Session 2
Panchtatva Montessori: Freedom, Responsibility, and Kinesthetic Harmony with Nature's Realms
Jo Bosel
Session 3
Bridging Generations: A Montessori Journey to Establishing an Intergenerational Program
12:30 PM
60 min
Break
🍽️ Lunch & Networking
1:30 PM
45 min
Concurrent Workshops
Choose Your Track
Day 1 · 1:30 – 2:15 PM · Choose one track
Linda Rigby
Session 1
Why Montessori is More Relevant Than Ever
Alex I
Session 2
Curriculum?
Himal Randeniya
Session 3
How AI Can Make Us More Human: What We Choose to Protect
2:15 PM
30 min
Break
☕ Afternoon Tea & Networking
2:45 PM
45 min
Keynote
Tim Seldin — Presentation to be Announced
Tim Seldin
Montessori Foundation
Tim Seldin
President, The Montessori Foundation · Chair, IMC
Day 1 · 2:45 – 3:30 PM
One of the most respected leaders in Montessori education worldwide. Presentation details will be announced closer to the conference.
3:30 PM
45 min
Keynote
Getting the Montessori Message Out: How Can We Help Parents Engage with Montessori?
Dr Rebecca English
QUT Researcher
Dr Rebecca English
Associate Professor, Queensland University of Technology
Day 1 · 3:30 – 4:15 PM
Australia's leading expert in emergent trends in education. This interactive keynote explores how to help parents better understand and engage with Montessori practice, providing practical strategies for school leaders, teachers and the broader Montessori community.
4:15 PM
30 min
🧘 Wellbeing
Wellbeing Activity
Day 1 · 4:15 – 4:45 PM
Details to be confirmed.
7:30 AM
45 min
🧘 Bonus Wellbeing · Free
Morning Flow — Energise & Set Your Intention
Dhara Oza
Book via QR · Free
Saturday, 1 August
7:30 AM – 8:15 AM
Morning Flow: Energise & Set Your Intention
What to bring: Comfortable clothing, a water bottle, and an optional yoga mat.
Scan to book your spot
Free to attend, but spaces are limited. Scan the QR code and complete the form to confirm your place.
9:00 AM
45 min
Keynote
The Prepared Life: Our Montessori Journey
Chris Peach
MIC Principal
Chris Peach
Principal, Montessori International College
Day 2 · 9:00 – 9:45 AM
Chris reflects on key elements of his Montessori leadership journey, drawing parallels to the stages of development of a Montessori teacher and the prepared adult.
9:45 AM
15 min
🧘 Wellbeing
Wellbeing Activity
Day 2 · 9:45 – 10:00 AM
Details to be confirmed.
10:00 AM
45 min
Keynote
Thrive to Guide: Cultivating Educator and Child Wellbeing
Jessica Langford
Educator & Mentor
Jessica Langford
Montessori Educator & Mentor · MPhil Candidate
Day 2 · 10:00 – 10:45 AM
Exploring the intersection between positive psychology and Montessori pedagogy, positioning educator wellbeing as foundational to thriving learning environments. Participants gain practical strategies to replenish energy, strengthen resilience, and reconnect with meaning and purpose.
10:45 AM
30 min
Break
☕ Morning Tea & Stretch
11:15 AM
45 min
Concurrent Workshops
Choose Your Track
Day 2 · 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM · Choose one track
Kaye Skarratt
Session 1
Using Tactile Materials to Improve Phonological and Phonemic Awareness in the 3–6 Classroom
Stella Mandas
Session 2
Bridging the Gap: Supporting Educators to Align, Adapt, and Thrive Through Clear Strategies and Effective Systems
Ruchika Narula
Session 3
From Teacher to Guide
12:00 PM
60 min
Break
🍽️ Lunch & Networking
1:00 PM
45 min
Concurrent Workshops
Choose Your Track
Day 2 · 1:00 – 1:45 PM · Choose one track
Jea Villanueva-Vallée
Session 1
Respectful Care in a Montessori Setting
Jack Butler
Session 2
From Control to Trust: Reimagining Effective Learning in the Modern Classroom
Carmel Ellis
Session 3
The Prepared Adult: A 40-Year Journey of Growth, Reflection, and Practice
1:45 PM
15 min
Curriculum Update
Curriculum Update & Announcements
Alex I
Curriculum
Day 2 · 1:45 – 2:00 PM
Curriculum update and announcements from Alex I.
2:00 PM
45 min
Closing Speaker
Gavin McCormack — Presentation to be Announced
Gavin McCormack
MA Ambassador
Gavin McCormack
Author · Educator · Co-Founder, Upschool · MA Ambassador
Day 2 · 2:00 – 2:45 PM
Gavin brings his wealth of global Montessori experience to MANC 2026. Presentation details to be announced.
2:45 PM
15 min
Official Close
Closing, Updates & Announcements from the Montessori Australia Team
MA
Montessori Australia
Ends 3:00 PM
Day 2 · 2:45 – 3:00 PM
Closing remarks, updates and announcements from the Montessori Australia team.
Secure your place — Register now
Questions about the program? events@montessori.org.au
Conference Venue
Brisbane Airport
Conference Centre
Address
2 Dryandra Road
Brisbane Airport QLD 4008
Brisbane Airport QLD 4008
13
Unique Function Spaces
5 min
Walk to Domestic Terminal
1 km
From International Terminal
Known affectionately as the "River City," Brisbane is the perfect place to spend winter days — where Acacia trees flower and the pace of life feels intentionally balanced, much like a well-prepared Montessori environment. Between sessions, explore South Bank's lush riverside gardens, QAGOMA, and the bohemian streets of West End. Evenings shine at Howard Smith Wharves or on a sunset river ferry.
Accommodation
Stay right in the heart
of the action
We've locked in exclusive, discounted rates at two incredible on-site hotels. Use the promo code below when booking to access your savings.
Economy · 3 Star
Ibis Brisbane Airport
Vibrant, modern and fuss-free — compact rooms designed for efficiency and comfort, right next to the conference.
$259/ night
5 Star · Luxury
Pullman Brisbane Airport
Five-star luxury and sophisticated design — spacious rooms, premium amenities and a refined atmosphere.
$299/ night
Tickets & Registration
Choose your registration
All prices in AUD incl. GST. Register at events.humanitix.com
Best Value
Member · Early Bird
2-Day Member Ticket
$540
+ $54 GST
Total: $594
Closes 5 June 2026
Non-Member · Early Bird
2-Day Non-Member Ticket
$630
+ $63 GST
Total: $693
Closes 5 June 2026
Member · Standard
2-Day Member Ticket
$620
+ $62 GST
Total: $682
Closes 21 July 2026
Non-Member · Standard
2-Day Non-Member Ticket
$710
+ $71 GST
Total: $781
Closes 21 July 2026
Single Day · Friday
Friday 31 July Only
$370
+ $37 GST
Total: $407
Closes 21 July 2026
Single Day · Saturday
Saturday 1 August Only
$340
+ $34 GST
Total: $374
Closes 21 July 2026
Concession
2-Day Concession Ticket
$420
+ $42 GST
Total: $462
Closes 21 July 2026
Virtual
Conference Recording
$190
+ $19 GST
Total: $209
Full fee $480 from 1 August
Group & Package Tickets
Save more when you bring your team — exclusive bulk rates for schools and organisations.
Group · 3 Delegates
Early Bird Member Pack
$520
per person + GST
Total: $1,716
3 × $572 incl. GST
Save vs standard rate
Closes 5 June 2026
Most Popular
Group · 6 Delegates
Early Bird Member Pack
$500
per person + GST
Total: $3,300
6 × $550 incl. GST
Save more per person
Closes 5 June 2026
Group · 10 Delegates
Early Bird Member Pack
$490
per person + GST
Total: $5,390
10 × $539 incl. GST
Best group rate
Closes 5 June 2026
Recording · 5 Licences
2-Day Event Recording Pack
$185
per person + GST
Total: $1,017.50
5 × $203.50 incl. GST
Full fee $480 from 1 August
Recording · 10 Licences
2-Day Event Recording Pack
$165
per person + GST
Total: $1,815
10 × $181.50 incl. GST
Full fee $480 from 1 August
Questions? events@montessori.org.au
Sponsors & Exhibitors
Partner with Australia's
Montessori community
Sponsorship submissions are now open. Gain prominent visibility among Montessori schools, educators, leaders and stakeholders across Australia and internationally.
Targeted Exposure
Reach Montessori schools, centres and educators to build meaningful brand awareness.
Networking
Direct access to influential educators, principals and researchers in the Montessori community.
Positive Association
Align your brand with excellence in Montessori education, enhancing reputation and image.
Publicity
Recognition across event programs, social media and press releases throughout the campaign.
Community Impact
Demonstrate commitment to quality education and build trust within the Montessori ecosystem.
Important notes: Floor plans are for reference only. Actual site positions will depend on delegate numbers, catering needs and OH&S regulations. Site allocations are not finalised until confirmation is received from Montessori Australia, and may be subject to change up to the convention date.
✦
Sponsor logos and details will appear here as they are confirmed.