The Foundation supports Montessori programmes in remote and Indigenous communities. The ultimate aim is that all children in Australia will have the possibility of attending a Montessori programme regardless of their location or socio-economic circumstances.

Projects are currently underway in the following areas: Cape York, Torres Strait Nation, Redfern, Woorabinda and Yalata. Pilot projects have also operated in Cairns and Armidale.

An important focus in facilitating this goal is the training of Indigenous Montessori teachers.

Montessori learning programmes have been developing in Indigenous communities over the last 20 years in Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia and NSW.  The Montessori approach is particularly well received within Indigenous communities for the following reasons:

	Indigenous culture is respected and reflected in custom-made teaching resources
	All children in Montessori classrooms progress at their own speed
	There is no emphasis on competition
	Montessori recognises the crucial importance of the first years of life and offers practical means to support the optimal development of infants and young children
	Montessori is a consistent and long-term approach
	Montessori has shown a long-term commitment to specific Indigenous communities and trust has been built with elders, community members and parents
	Bilingual programs are easily implemented in the Montessori environments
	Montessori has a strong emphasis on parent involvement and parent education
	Children become actively and productively engaged in the learning activities due to the combination of movement, sensorial learning and the ability to freely choose an activity of work
	The importance of observation and modelling positive behaviours and activities is a learning style appreciated by Indigenous communities

Montessori programmes have led to positive learning outcomes as well as increased self-esteem and contentment amongst the children.  This has a beneficial effect on the communities as parents feel more encouraged and become more actively involved in their children’s education.