Staff Spotlight – Meet Brad

Brad Nelsen joined MMC in July 2026 as Head of Caulfield Campus, bringing over 30 years’ experience including 12 years at Firbank Grammar and time at Beaconhills College. He’s drawn to how Montessori education builds curiosity, independence and confidence in every child. Outside of work, he’s a devoted grandfather to four under five, keen cook, and pickleball convert.  We spent five minutes chatting with him.

Full Name: Brad Nelsen

Position: Head of Caulfield Campus

How long have you been at MMC? Since 13th July 2026.

Where were you beforehand?

Beaconhills College for Semester 1 and Firbank Grammar School, Sandringham, for the previous 12 years.

What do you love about working at MMC?

I’m enjoying being part of a community that sees each child as a unique individual with incredible potential. Watching staff being so enthusiastic about children growing into thoughtful, compassionate and self-motivated learners is a privilege. The community has been very welcoming of me as the new Head of Campus and I’m very grateful to be here.

What inspires you as a Montessori educator/team member?

Watching children discover their own capabilities and develop a genuine love of learning. Montessori education nurtures curiosity, independence and respect, empowering every child to learn at their own pace, while building confidence and resilience.

What is your most memorable teaching moment (or moment working in a school)?

With over 30 years’ experience as a teacher and Head of Junior School, I have many memorable moments. During the COVID years, I was determined to have our Prep to Year 6 musical production go ahead for the benefit of children and staff and as a positive and uplifting activity for us.  We had outdoor singing and acting rehearsals and only came together in small groups in the ‘Social Centre’ to film each scene. It took a while, but the finished product was amazing and each parent received a copy of the production, as they couldn’t see any of it ‘live.’  The whole process brought us closer as a community.

What’s your most memorable moment as a school student?

When I was in Year 11 at Trinity Grammar School, I was chosen for the First VI tennis team which played against other AGSV schools. We weren’t a very strong team however, my first singles win was memorable as I came from 1-4 down to win 7-5.

What are five interesting things about you we may not know?

1. I have four grandchildren under the age of four-and-a-half.
2. I love cooking for friends and family, especially Italian food.
3. I go to the gym three or four times a week, which usually consists of a walk on the treadmill and then weight training.
4. I learnt Italian as a second language for about four years with my wife, and we have been fortunate to travel to Italy on numerous occasions.
5. I started playing pickleball a couple of years ago and want to get back to playing it on a more regular basis.

What does your weekend look like?

Usually, we will look after one or more grandchildren or have them over to our place to play or for lunch. I might attend a Collingwood game or watch some football on TV. Most weekends, we will have one ‘rest’ day, which might include a casual day of shopping, coffees and a walk in the evening.

What is your favourite Maria Montessori Quote?

“The child is both a hope and a promise for humankind.”