The Montessori Program (MAP) at Templestowe College (TC)  is being shut down in 2028. We want to make it able so younger students can still participate in the program even if it's only for one or two years.

Talitha - I'm in my second year of MAP, and I have a younger sister. She's nine and would really want to be in MAP. If the program gets shuts down, she'll never have the chance to be a part of the community.

Tabi -  I have always really struggled with going to school, for nearly all of my last year of primary school I only attended my classes once a week or not at all. MAP has become a place where I feel good about coming to school and enjoy getting a education that is tailored to my needs and makes me feel supported. I can not imagine what would have happened to younger me if this amazing program didn't exist. 

Zaria - I have been apart of the Montessori community since the start of my education. MAP has helped my educational journey so much. I have gotten many lifelong friends from MAP and many educational opportunities. It breaks my heart that students that would want to experience this now can't.

The teachers that teach MAP dedicate their lives to studying and teaching the Montessori philosophy, and making sure they have proper training. From MAP many programs at TC have been created, such as the animals program and the technology program. Without MAP, TC would not be the TC it is today.

The Montessori Adolescent Program at TC is the only public Montessori Secondary Program in Victoria, so if MAP gets shut down, there will be no way for average students like me and many others to afford Montessori education. The only option will be a private school, which many can't afford.

I know many younger students who would miss this program and all the students in year eight and nine who would not be getting a full experience if there are no new students.

Our goal with this petition is to make students currently in year  5 and 6 able to still be a part of MAP even for only one or two years.

Obviously, our overarching goal is for MAP to not be shut down. This program has made momentous memories and skills for all of us and has changed many lives.

Zaria <3

ADDENDUM – A NOTE FROM THE PARENTS

As parents of MAP students at TC, we support this petition and the students who are deeply affected by the decision to shut down the only public Montessori program for secondary students in Victoria. This shock announcement was made after zero consultation with MAP students, family, staff, or the wider TC community. For many young people, MAP is far more than an educational program - it provides safety, belonging, stability, and meaningful engagement with learning, particularly for those who have struggled in conventional educational settings. We join with the students in demanding the school uphold its stated values of student agency, respectful relationships, collaboration and innovation. Email tcmapcommunity@gmail.com to stay updated and support the campaign!