Montessori school opens gates for rural campus fete | Photos

Margaret River Montessori School’s rural campus buzzed with energy and excitement on Saturday as families, educators, and students gathered for the Erdkinder Open Day & Fete.

The event offered a vibrant mix of hands-on learning, entrepreneurial spirit, and family-friendly fun – highlighting the transformative power of the Montessori adolescent program.

Visitors enjoyed guided tours, explored unique learning environments and the working farm, and met with passionate educators.

The heart of the day centred around the ‘Production and Exchange’ element of the curriculum, where students showcased small businesses they had created themselves.

Students took the lead in every aspect of the event – costing supplies, managing budgets, making signage, and working in teams to bring their creative ideas to life.

Live music, carnival games, a snake awareness exhibit, henna art, and a delicious array of food including pizza, popcorn, and fresh produce added to the festive atmosphere.

“What we witnessed wasn’t just fun – it was powerful,” a spokesperson said. “This was real-world learning in action, where students felt capable, trusted, and valued by their community.”

The success of the day was made possible by the generous support of parents, volunteers, and local supporters who donated their time and resources.

With a strong sense of purpose and community, the event embodied the Montessori value of ‘valorisation’ – helping young people grow through meaningful, practical experiences.