With no year groups, no subject departments, no timetables, no assessments, and no teachers in the traditional sense – who are referred to as “guides” – Montessori schools focus on “practical life skills”. Find out where your child can receive this unique education in London.
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The best Montessori Schools in London
From incubating duck eggs to tending to basil in the garden, a Montessori education is unconventional. This method of schooling, which focuses on creativity, exploration, and personal development, aims to produce more mature, creative, and socially adept children. It discourages traditional competitive measurements, with exams and grades replaced by self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play.The brainchild of Maria Montessori – Italy’s first female doctor – the schooling system was pioneered at the turn of the 20th century to educate poor children in Italy. Her philosophy was: “The essence of independence is to be able to do something for one’s self. A child works in order to grow, and is working to create the adult, the person that is to be.”Montessori schools are typically privately funded in the UK. Most offer preschool and early years education, but there are some junior schools and a few senior schools. Let’s explore some of the best Montessori schools in London.

My Montessori School – Hammersmith
This Montessori nursery for children aged two to five adopts a conscious individualised approach to learning that integrates the physical, social, and emotional development of its children. Self-esteem, confidence, independence, resilience, and social skills underpin the school’s ethos. These skills help its children integrate better into their community and make a seamless transition to primary school.
https://mymontessorischool.london/
Paint Pots
This independent group of nurseries – based in Notting Hill, Chelsea, and Hyde Park – has offered a creative and nurturing Montessori education for children aged two to five since 1988. Children are encouraged to develop their independence and confidence across a broad curriculum. Each child is valued as an individual, with teaching tailored to their needs.
Maria Montessori Institute
Established in 1964, the MMI offers an authentic Montessori education for children aged two to sixteen across four sites: Bayswater, Hampstead, Crouch End and Notting Hill. Classes are separated into three age categories: Children’s Houses (nursery/preschool – age two and a half to six), Montessori Elementary classes (primary/prep school – age six to twelve) and Montessori Adolescent (secondary – age twelve to sixteen).
https://www.mariamontessori.org/
Apple Montessori School – Ealing
Based at Trailfinders Sports Club, with full access to its 18 acres of green space, this nursery offers a total of 30 children aged two to five an enriching Montessori education. They pride themselves on providing an individual learning journey for each child by making each day a magical, stimulating, and educational experience.
https://applemontessorilondon.co.uk/

Good luck with the school search for your child. Choosing a school that matches your family’s requirements will be one of the most important decisions you make during your move.
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