Our Approach

Montessori learning, outdoor discovery and nurturing early years care

At Droxford Montessori, our approach is rooted in the Montessori philosophy and enriched by Forest School, outdoor learning, cookery, gardening, yoga, music and creative exploration.

We believe children learn best when they feel safe, valued and free to explore. Our role is to provide a calm, carefully prepared environment where every child can grow in confidence, develop independence and discover a love of learning at their own pace.

Our setting supports the whole child — socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually and creatively — helping children build strong foundations for school and for life.

The Montessori method

Dr Maria Montessori believed that children are naturally curious, capable and eager to learn when given the right environment and gentle guidance.

At Droxford Montessori, children are encouraged to make choices, follow their interests and take part in meaningful activities that support independence, concentration and self-esteem.

Our Montessori classroom is carefully prepared so children can access age-appropriate materials, practise real-life skills and learn through hands-on experience. Teachers observe each child closely, offering support and introducing new activities when the child is ready.

This child-centred approach helps children become confident, independent and thoughtful learners.

Learning through independence

A key part of Montessori education is helping children develop practical life skills.

Children are encouraged to take part in everyday tasks such as pouring drinks, laying tables, fastening zips and buttons, caring for plants and helping to look after their environment.

These simple, purposeful activities support fine and gross motor skills, concentration, coordination, confidence and independence. They also help children feel capable and valued as part of their community.

Communication and language

Language development is woven through the whole day.

Children are supported through songs, stories, rhymes, conversations, group time, books and everyday interactions with adults and peers.

We encourage children to express themselves, listen to others and build confidence in their communication. Our weekly sound box also gives children the opportunity to explore letters and sounds in a fun, meaningful way by bringing in objects from home linked to the sound of the week.

Literacy

Our literacy approach is based on a carefully structured phonic method.

Children are introduced to letter sounds through sensory Montessori materials, including sandpaper letters, which allow them to trace the letter shape while hearing the sound.

This hands-on approach helps children build early reading and writing skills in a natural, enjoyable way. Mark-making materials are always available, giving children opportunities to draw, write, explore pencil control and develop confidence with early writing.

Mathematics and sensorial learning

Montessori mathematics is practical, visual and hands-on.

Children use carefully designed materials to explore numbers, counting, quantity, simple sums, measurement, fractions and early mathematical ideas. Many Montessori materials are self-correcting, allowing children to notice and correct mistakes independently.

Sensorial activities also play an important role. Children use their senses to sort, match, compare, order and explore, helping them develop observation skills, concentration and problem-solving.

Physical development

Children have regular opportunities to develop both fine and gross motor skills.

Practical life activities support hand-eye coordination, grip, control and concentration, while outdoor play helps children build strength, balance, coordination and confidence.

Our outdoor areas include opportunities for climbing, large construction, bikes, sand and water play, planting, growing, group games and large mark-making.

We believe movement, fresh air and physical exploration are essential parts of healthy early years development.

Understanding the world

Children are naturally curious about the world around them.

Through Montessori materials and real-life experiences, children explore early science, geography, biology, history, nature and culture. They may use globes, maps, puzzles, natural materials and topic-based activities to develop a wider understanding of people, places and the environment.

Outdoor learning, gardening and Forest School also help children connect with the natural world and develop care and respect for the environment.

Expressive arts and creativity

Creativity is part of everyday life at Droxford Montessori.

Children have regular access to painting, gluing, cutting, collage, junk modelling, drawing, mark-making and other creative materials. These activities support imagination, self-expression, fine motor skills and confidence.

We also offer adult-led creative activities linked to our current topics, seasons and celebrations, helping children explore ideas in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Forest School and outdoor learning

Outdoor learning is a very important part of our approach.

Our children regularly explore the garden, allotment and nearby woodland, with Forest School sessions taking place on Fridays.

Forest School gives children the chance to learn through nature, take supported risks, solve problems, work together and develop resilience. These outdoor experiences encourage curiosity, confidence, teamwork and a strong connection with the natural world.

Children should bring warm, waterproof clothing for Forest School, especially during colder or wetter weather.

Cookery, gardening, yoga and music

Alongside our Montessori curriculum, children enjoy a varied weekly programme of enriching activities.

Cookery

Children take part in weekly cookery sessions where they explore ingredients, practise skills, follow simple instructions and enjoy creating food together. Our recipes are often linked to the letter of the week, seasonal themes or wider learning projects.

Gardening

Through Gardening Club, children spend time at our allotment and outdoor spaces, planting, growing, watering and caring for produce. These hands-on experiences help children understand nature, healthy eating and where food comes from.

Yoga

Yoga sessions support movement, balance, breathing, concentration and calm. They give children time to develop body awareness and confidence in a gentle, playful way.

Music and movement

Music and movement sessions allow children to explore rhythm, sound, instruments, singing and physical expression. These activities support coordination, confidence, listening skills and creativity.

Preparing children for school and life

Our aim is to help every child leave Droxford Montessori feeling confident, capable and ready for their next step.

Through Montessori learning, outdoor exploration, practical life skills, creativity and nurturing support, children develop independence, resilience, social confidence and a love of learning.

We gently support each child as an individual, helping them grow at their own pace while building the skills they need for school and beyond.

Would you like to visit us?

The best way to understand our approach is to come and see it in action.

We warmly welcome visits from prospective families. To arrange a visit, please contact us or complete our enquiry form, making sure to include your email address and telephone number.

“Montessori was one of the most important early years educators of the 20th century, the innovator of classroom practices and ideas which have had a profound influence on the education of young children the world over’ Montessori International