The Leadership Team
Millbrook Montessori is co-founded by Nicarla Saville and Michelle Newman, who bring more than two decades of combined experience in early education – including over 11 years of working together as trusted colleagues and close friends.
Their decision to launch Millbrook Montessori was born from a shared vision: to create an authentic, high quality, values-driven Montessori learning experience that genuinely serves children, families, educators and the broader Toowoomba community.
Their professional relationship was built in a previous early childhood education service, where: Nicarla led the Infant Toddler Community with a focus on 0-3 year Montessori implementation and Michelle delivered a Montessori program for children aged 2.5 years to school age (including a Kindergarten program).
This shared history gives them a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and working styles, effective Montessori service implementation, curriculum planning and educator mentoring and operational problem-solving and leadership in a centre environment.
At Millbrook Montessori both leaders are actively involved in the day-to-day learning environment, working directly with children, families and educators. Their formal Montessori qualifications ensure that the integrity and authenticity of the Montessori philosophy is upheld at every level – from classroom practice to parent engagement and educator training.
Nicarla Saville
Business Owner, Approved Provider, Nominated Supervisor & Lead Educator Piccolo Community
A Toowoomba local, Nicarla brings over 14 years of early education experience, a Montessori specialisation, and strong community ties to her role at Millbrook Montessori. Her calm, nurturing presence and deep commitment to children’s development underpin her leadership as co-owner of the service. Her passion for working with children began well before high school where she would always help with younger children at events.
Her qualifications include a Certificate III in Children’s Services as a school-based trainee, Diploma in Children’s Services and a Diploma in Early Education (Montessori 0-3 years).
Nicarla’s professional experience across sectors include:
Family Farm - where she developed a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for animal care, sustainability and connection to the land.
Hospitality – where she built a solid foundation in exceptional customer service and teamwork.
Coaching Representative Netball - where she has gained a deep understanding of the importance of leadership, direction, and supportive coaching.
Early Learning and Education- where she was employed as a Lead Educator and Assistant in Long Day-Care settings.
As a proud local, Nicarla is well-known and trusted by many families in the Toowoomba region. Her long-standing connections are an asset to the centre - families, community and reputation.
“I deeply value the Montessori philosophy for its emphasis on respect, child-led learning and supporting each child’s natural development. I am committed to creating calm, nurturing, and thoughtfully prepared environments that encourage exploration, independence and a genuine love of learning. Through these spaces, children are supported to grow with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of belonging.”
Michelle Newman
Business Owner, Approved Provider, Educational Leader, Nominated Supervisor & Teacher Casa Community
Originally from Canberra, Michelle has called Toowoomba home for over 20 years. She is a mother of three teenage/adult children. Michelle's journey to early education was sparked over 30 years ago when she completed work experience in a Kindergarten!
Guiding children’s learning materialised as Michelle's second career following years spent in Human Resources and Business environments.
Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Psychology & Sociology), Graduate Diploma in Employment Relations (HR & Business Management), Graduate Diploma in Early Education (Montessori) and a Certificate III in Children’s Services.
Michelle’s professional experience across sectors include:
Hospitality – where she learned the value of exceptional customer service.
Human Resources – specialising in recruitment, training, communication, change management and quality systems.
Department of Defence/Aviation/Private Enterprise – managing contracts and personnel/business operations.
Early Learning and Education – as a Kindergarten Teacher in both Long Day-Care and Sessional Kindergarten; OHSC; and as a Primary School Teacher in Toowoomba Catholic Schools.
Montessori education (for teachers/guides) – serving as a contributor and understudy to the QLD representative for Montessori World Educational Institute (MWEI), assisting with lectures and workshops on Montessori pedagogy.
Michelle brings a diverse and exceptional background to Millbrook Montessori, combining strong academic credentials with over two decades of cross-industry experience. Her leadership is grounded in a deep belief in serving others, with a particular passion for Montessori education and quality early learning environments.