Southern Montessori School is an independent co-ed school offering Montessori education in a progressive, inquiry-led setting.
NAPLAN averaging 28 points above national year-level averages; the result is a B+ overall.
Southern Montessori School is an independent co-ed school offering Montessori education in a progressive, inquiry-led setting. The school welcomes high-ability learners through a dedicated program and supports inclusive education across the community. Families are drawn to the tight-knit, collaborative environment where Montessori principles shape how children learn and develop independence. It suits parents seeking a structured yet child-centred approach to education in a close school community.
Southern Montessori School is also known as SMS O'Sullivan Beach.
Southern Montessori School has an overall SchoolRank score of 64.4/100, rated "Good". This score is calculated from academic results, student growth, wellbeing, programs, and value for money. Academically, the school grades B+ (Good) against other Australian schools. The school's ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) is 1095 (83rd percentile; the national average is 1,000).
In 2025 NAPLAN testing at Southern Montessori School, Year 3 students averaged 423 across the tested NAPLAN domains, above the national average of 407 for that year level, and Year 5 students averaged 517, above the national average of 490 for that year level, and Year 7 students averaged 563, above the national average of 540 for that year level, and Year 9 students averaged 616, well above the national average of 569 for that year level. Relative to national year-level averages, the school's strongest domain is Grammar. National averages are specific to each year level, because NAPLAN scores are scaled so older year levels score higher. A school-wide average can't be compared with a single national figure.
Southern Montessori School is a small Independent combined school with approximately 230 students. It offers education for years R-9. As an Independent school, enrolment typically involves an application process. Contact the school directly for enrolment criteria, waiting lists, and open day information.
Southern Montessori School has approximate annual tuition fees of $4,952. Actual fees may vary by year level, and additional costs for uniforms, camps, and extracurricular activities typically apply. The school grades B (Average) for value for money, which weighs academic results against the cost of attendance.
Southern Montessori School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 12.5:1. This is below the national average of approximately 14:1, meaning students generally receive more individual attention. Support staff make up 38% of the workforce, providing additional learning assistance and pastoral care. The student attendance rate is 91%, which is good.
The Year 12 completion rate is 99%.
Southern Montessori School is located in O'Sullivan Beach, SA, in a major city. Its ICSEA is 1095 (83rd percentile; the national average is 1,000). ICSEA measures the advantage of a school's community, from its parents' education and occupation, not the school's quality. A school with a lower ICSEA and strong academic results may be teaching particularly effectively.