Adolescent Program (12-18)

Montessori Secondary Education | Independent High School

At West Coast Montessori, our Adolescent program is designed to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. Developed in collaboration with Big Picture Learning Australia, the program moves away from traditional appointment learning, where every student follows the same timetable, to a personalised and passion-driven approach. Well aligned with Montessori philosophy, this method nurtures creativity, independence, and critical thinking, which are essential skills for life beyond school.

Program Highlights

• Diverse University Pathways: Our graduates access tertiary education through a variety of non-traditional routes, including comprehensive portfolios, undergraduate bridging programs, and the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT).

• Interest-Based Learning: Following the Big Picture Learning design, students build their curriculum around their own passions. This ensures deep engagement and makes learning relevant to their individual goals.

• Real-World Internships: To bridge the gap between school and the workforce, students participate in professional internships. These experiences provide authentic mentorship and help guide future career pathways.

• VET and Professional Qualifications: Students can undertake Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications on campus or through registered training facilities, gaining industry-recognised skills while completing school.

• Personalised Portfolios: Rather than relying solely on traditional testing, students document their growth through public exhibitions, demonstrating their mastery and readiness for the world.

Growth and Work-Readiness

Our high school program has a strong influence on the young person’s personal growth in the areas of public speaking, the arts, sports, business, economics, and entrepreneurship. By integrating out-of-school activities and work-readiness skills, we ensure that students gain real-life experiences that move beyond the classroom walls.

This approach fosters a sense of agency and responsibility. Students learn to manage their own schedules, communicate with adult professionals, and take ownership of their academic and personal development.

Preparing for Life After Graduation

At West Coast Montessori, we encourage students to aim high. Our Senior School graduates have a range of post-school pathways, including tertiary study, vocational opportunities, and employment. Because our program focuses on the whole person, our students are uniquely prepared for the self-directed nature of university life.

Our approach ensures every student leaves with not only academic knowledge, but also the independence, adaptability, and confidence needed to thrive in further study, work, and life.