The Montessori approach to nursery education was developed by the Italian educator Maria Montessori at the turn of the twentieth century.  It aims at helping each child attain his or her maximum potential, by using an individual approach based on the belief that each child is unique and deserves respect.

Children are given freedom of choice of activities from a carefully prepared selection of exercises and educational games, each of which will assist in developing one or more aspects of their personality.  Each activity is of equal value and children are encouraged, though never forced, to make use of everything available in the classroom.  Each child works at his or her own pace, because Montessorians know that children learn better and faster if they are not pressurised.  They motivate themselves and therefore learn more thoroughly and efficiently when they are allowed to understand each step fully before moving on.

Children are not disciplined by the threat of punishment or the bribe of reward, but are helped with love and patience to attain self-discipline and concentration on their work, whilst retaining enthusiasm for tasks.

Children are encouraged to learn how to interact with other members of the group socially, be they peers, teachers or visitors and will learn how to perform many simple practical activities leading to independence and competence in life skills as diverse as dusting a shelf to settling an argument.

For details of the Montessori equipment that we use, please click here.