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Montessori nurseries

Learning inspired by independence and discovery

The Montessori approach encourages children to learn through hands-on experiences, make choices and discover new ideas for themselves.

Many of our nurseries are inspired by elements of Montessori, creating thoughtfully arranged environments where children can explore activities that reflect their interests and stage of development. Practitioners support their learning through observation and guidance, while encouraging growing independence.

What is the Montessori approach?

Montessori is a child-led approach to education developed by Dr Maria Montessori. It recognises each child as an individual and gives them opportunities to learn through practical experiences, exploration and choice.

Children can select from carefully considered activities and resources, giving them time and space to explore their interests and develop skills at their own pace.

Practitioners play an important role, observing children's interests and development and providing guidance and support when appropriate.
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Independence at the heart of learning

Montessori-inspired early years environments draw on principles that encourage children to become active participants in their own learning.

From making choices to exploring thoughtfully selected resources, these principles can give children opportunities to develop independence, curiosity and confidence through everyday experiences.

Child-led learning

Choosing and exploring

Children can choose activities that interest them, building their understanding through hands-on experiences. Practitioners observe, guide and introduce new opportunities as children’s interests and skills develop

Prepared environments

Making exploration accessible

Montessori-inspired environments can be carefully organised to help children access activities and resources independently. Clearly defined areas and accessible resources give children opportunities to make choices and explore different areas of learning.

Hands-on materials

Learning through doing

Carefully selected resources give children opportunities to practise skills, investigate ideas and learn through hands-on experiences. Materials can also be chosen with children's size, abilities and stage of development in mind.

Individual pace

Time to develop

Every child develops differently. Montessori principles recognise this by giving children time to explore activities, practise skills and develop at a pace that reflects their individual needs.

Learning through everyday experiences

Montessori brings learning into practical, meaningful experiences that children can explore for themselves.

 

From everyday tasks to language, numbers and sensory discovery, activities provide opportunities to practise skills, investigate ideas and become increasingly independent.

Find the right Montessori nursery for you

Across our network, some nurseries are inspired by elements of Montessori, while others follow a more established Montessori approach. Explore the options available to find a nursery that feels right for your child and family.
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What might children experience?

Montessori inspiration in everyday nursery life

Every nursery has its own character, so Montessori inspiration can look different from one setting to another. Children may have opportunities to make choices, practise everyday skills and spend time exploring activities that capture their interest.

  • Choosing their own activities

    Children can select from accessible resources and activities, giving them time to concentrate, explore and move on when they are ready.

     

  • Everyday independence

    Experiences such as helping to prepare for mealtimes, serving food or putting resources away can give children opportunities to take responsibility and practise practical skills.

     

  • Learning alongside others

    Children may spend time alongside children of different ages and stages, creating opportunities to observe one another, communicate and share experiences.

1. A baby boy happily playing in a sand pit, surrounded by toys and sand, enjoying in nursery

How can Montessori support children's development?

Montessori-inspired experiences can give children opportunities to develop skills, confidence and independence through everyday learning and exploration.

Develop independence

Practising doing things for themselves

Making choices and taking part in everyday tasks can help children develop growing independence.

Explore and solve problems

Trying different ideas

Hands-on experiences encourage children to experiment, make connections and discover different ways to approach a challenge.

Develop concentration

Time to focus

Having time to explore something that interests them can encourage children to become absorbed and engaged in what they are doing.

Build practical skills

Learning through everyday experiences

Everyday activities can give children opportunities to practise coordination, movement and age-appropriate self-care skills.

Learn alongside others

Sharing experiences

Children can observe, communicate and interact with others as they explore and learn within a shared environment.

Get in touch

Have a question or need support? Our friendly team is here to help with nursery enquiries, admissions, funding, or anything else you need.
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