The Village Montessori Nursery School started with humble beginnings as Waldridge Village Playgroup in 1983. It was founded by 2 Qualified teachers with a clear vision: to provide high-quality early years education in a safe, caring, and inspiring environment. We were based in a very small Village Hall, and from the outset we devised our own fun-filled curriculum with cooking, music, drama and all things creative.
In that era, we were not inspected by Ofsted, but by specially trained Local Authority inspectors who were more keen on helping us improve than they were noting any deficiency.
In 1999 we bought our current nursery in Birtley, and in 2001 Ofsted took over Inspections, but little changed at first, as our usual Local Authority Inspectors just became employed by Ofsted, but their approach was the same
In 2008 there was a complete change in Early Years with the inception of the first version of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). We love change, new ideas, fresh approaches to try, but look at them critically, accepting none until we have tried them out. We were one of the first nurseries to be inspected under this new system, and it was unannounced, so imagine our delight when we were held to be Outstanding!
Over time, this commitment to Quality has been consistently recognised through Outstanding Ofsted inspection outcomes in 2012 and 2018, spanning more than 15 years. Inspectors have highlighted the nursery’s strong leadership, highly effective teaching, excellent safeguarding practices, and the positive relationships that underpin children’s development.
Maintaining Outstanding standards over such a long period requires reflection, continuous improvement, and a shared sense of purpose across the entire team — values that remain central to the nursery today.
Montessori education is not simply a teaching method — it is a way of understanding children learn best. At The Village Montessori Nursery School, our values are firmly grounded in respect, independence, and curiosity.
Each child is viewed as capable and competent. Practitioners observe carefully, listen attentively, and respond to children’s interests and developmental needs.
Children are encouraged to make choices, care for their environment, and take ownership of their learning. These experiences help build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem.
Hands-on, practical activities allow children to learn through discovery rather than instruction, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
The areas of learning in our Montessori nurseries are carefully prepared to support focus, order, and independence, helping children feel secure and engaged.
These principles shape daily routines, interactions, and learning opportunities throughout the nursery.
Outstanding education begins with outstanding people. The Village Montessori Nursery School is proud of its highly qualified and experienced Montessori nursery staff, many of whom have been part of the nursery for many years.
This continuity provides children with stability and strong, trusting relationships — a key factor in emotional wellbeing and development. Staff regularly take part in professional development to ensure best practice in Montessori education, EYFS requirements, and safeguarding.
Above all, our team shares a genuine passion for early years education. They understand that every interaction matters and approach their role with warmth, patience, and professionalism — qualities consistently praised by both parents and Ofsted.
At our Outstanding Montessori nursery, care and education are inseparable. We believe children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and emotionally supported.
Our approach to care includes:
We work closely with parents to ensure continuity between home and nursery, recognising families as their children’s primary carers and first educators.
Our curriculum combines the Montessori method with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), ensuring children develop essential skills while learning at their own pace.
Children engage in activities that support:
Rather than rushing children through milestones, learning is guided by readiness and interest. This approach builds strong foundations for school readiness while preserving curiosity and confidence.
Read more about our Curriculum / Learning Approach
We believe the best outcomes are achieved when parents and nursery staff work together. Open communication, transparency, and trust are central to relationships at The Village Montessori Nursery School.
Parents are kept informed about their child’s learning, progress, and wellbeing through regular updates and conversations. Feedback is welcomed, and families are encouraged to be actively involved in nursery life.
This strong partnership approach has been instrumental in sustaining Outstanding Ofsted ratings over many years.
Maintaining an Outstanding Ofsted rating for over 15 years reflects the nursery’s unwavering commitment to quality, consistency, and child-centred education. While early years education continues to evolve, our underpinning Montessori values remain unchanged.
Looking ahead, The Village Montessori Nursery School remains dedicated to providing exceptional care, nurturing confident learners, and supporting children to become capable, compassionate individuals ready for their next steps.
Choosing the right nursery is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child. With a proven history of excellence, passionate staff, and a deeply rooted Montessori philosophy, The Village Montessori Nursery School offers a trusted environment where children truly thrive.
If you are searching for an Outstanding Montessori nursery that combines experience, care, and educational excellence, we invite you to learn more and arrange a visit.