Farmhouse Montessori is a community school which receives funding from the Department of Community Services.

It is also a parent-run school, and parents enrolling their children are expected to assist with the maintenance and running of the school. This includes participating in our Family Involvement program by being involved in working bees, clean-up sessions, fund-raising or community events, and taking a place on the school council at some point. This level of participation keeps fees down and, more importantly, builds a school in which children and parents alike take much pride. There is an annual working bee levy if families are unable to participate in a minimum of 2 out of 5 working bees.

Assistance in School Activities

Parents are encouraged to assist the school by:

• attend working bees
• making classroom materials,
• helping out on open day,
• sharing expertise with a class at the invitation of the directress.

The Montessori experience has been a positive one and has enriched our lives in many ways. Lizzie is happy at 'big school' and brimming with enthusiasm for her work. The transition to a traditional classroom setting has been effortless. When asked, how her day had been, she replied "Perfect, I can't wait till tomorrow!". What more can you ask for?

My advice is, get involved and enjoy being a part of this unique Montessori community.

Clare, Dave, Lizzie and Matthew Smith.

Council

The council and committees welcome members with skills or commitment in areas such as organisation, fundraising, finances, law, catering, editing, public relations, maintenance etc.

Current council positions, with a brief description of responsibilities, are:

• The President's responsibility is to guide and motivate the committee and parent membership in the furtherance of the short and long term objectives of the Farmhouse Montessori School and Montessori education.
• The Vice President's responsibility is to assess the ongoing processes and procedures of the school and refer them to the council to refine and update as required.
• The responsibility of the Secretary is to handle and keep correspondence, reports and minutes for the Society and school.
• The Treasurer oversees the finances of the Society.
• The responsibility of the Communications Officer is to help foster and develop the school community, increase the awareness and understanding of the Montessori principles by the school community and the general public, the benefits of a Montessori education and the activities of the Farmhouse Montessori School.
• The Fundraising Co-ordinators responsibility is to organise a range of fundraising events and activities throughout the year, including Open Day, Wine and Cheese night, Wheelathon, toy and other product catalogues.
• The responsibility of the Social Co-ordinator is to provide the school group with activities and events that encourage the interaction between families, council and staff members.
• The Premises Officer ensures the building and grounds of the school are well maintained for the safety of the children and staff as well as keeping regulatory requirements.