Learning Through Discovery
& Independence
Our Montessori-inspired approach creates spaces where your child can explore, discover, and develop at their own pace.
Home > Our Philosophy > Montessori Advantages
The Snowflakes Difference
Development - Led Balance
We describe our approach as Montessori-inspired rather than pure Montessori. We've adapted the philosophy to meet modern needs.
Our day has more structure than a traditional Montessori setting, which many families find reassuring. We integrate technology appropriately to keep parents connected through our daily updates and photo sharing.
We maintain Montessori's respect for your child, provide hands-on learning in carefully prepared environments all while ensuring we meet all Early Years Framework requirements when preparing children thoroughly for their next educational steps to school.
Individual Development For A Unique Child
At Snowflakes Day Nursery, we believe children learn best when they're actively engaged with their environment. Every child develops at their own pace, and our approach respects that.
While we follow the Early Years Framework to ensure comprehensive development, our Montessori-inspired methods mean we observe each child closely and provide activities matched to their current interests and abilities.
Your child won't be pushed to achieve milestones before they're ready, nor will they be held back if they're racing ahead. Our exceptional 1:5 staff-to-child ratio—more than double the government requirement allows us to individualise learning truly.
Our Prepared Environments: Structured Work Cycles
In our classrooms, you'll find purposeful learning environments. Our qualified staff guide each child toward specific Montessori materials based on their individual development needs.
Children move freely between numerous stations:
The Book Work Station
Develops early literacy skills and pencil control. Children choose from a range of materials that build their fine motor skills while nurturing a love of stories and language.
The Practical Life Station
Where children are carefully cutting fruit or pouring water. These aren't just activities to keep little hands busy, they're building independence, concentration, and coordination.
The Messy Play Station
Invites sensory exploration. Whether it's sand, water, or paint, children learn about textures, cause and effect, and creative expression.
The Theme-Based Station
connects learning to the wider world, changing weekly to explore different concepts and interests.
The Home Corner
Provides space for imaginative play and practising social skills in familiar contexts.
Every activity connects to your child's next developmental step, identified in our weekly planning meetings.
Building Independence for Life
One of the most powerful aspects of Montessori philosophy is its focus on independence. From the moment your child joins us, we're helping them develop self-reliance in age-appropriate ways.
Younger children learn to feed themselves, tidy up after activities, and communicate their needs. Older children take on more complex responsibilities, from preparing snacks to organising their belongings and helping others.
This independence-building isn't just about preparing for school; it's preparation for life. Parents often tell us how confident and capable their children become, skills that serve them well when they transition to school.
I cannot recommend Snowflakes enough! The staff are great, and they’ve created a lovely environment for the children to learn and grow in. I’ve seen a huge difference in my son’s development since he started there.
Priya A
Parent at Snowflakes Norwood Green
Learning Through Observation
Rather than formal testing, we observe children as they work and play. Our team documents these observations through photos, videos, and notes.
We look for patterns, when a child demonstrates a skill three times, we mark it as truly achieved.
This observation-based approach means we understand your child deeply. We see their interests, challenges, friendship patterns, and their learning preferences.
This knowledge shapes the activities we offer and helps us support each child's unique development journey.
Book Your Visit to see our approach in action.
I will start off by saying Snowflakes is such a great nursery, the staff are amazing they have truly set a fantastic foundation for my child's future. My son has been in Snowflakes since last year he's learnt a great deal since being in the nursery I'm thankful to all staff and the enriched environment that my son is thriving in.
S M
Parent at Snowflakes Lady Margaret Road
Mixed-Age Learning: Natural Mentors
Why We Promote Mixing Toddlers and Preschoolers Before School
Our mixed-age rooms (2.5-5 years) recreate the natural learning of large families. Younger children absorb complex concepts by watching older peers. Older children solidify thier understanding by explaining to younger ones.
Watch a four-year-old showing a three-year-old how to carry a tray. The younger child learns the skill, but the older childs need to practice develops their own understanding by teaching.
How Your Child Benefits
They develop patience, clear communication, and leadership skills that can't be taught directly but emerge through authentic interaction.
Younger children see what's possible, absorbing complex concepts by observing. Older children develop empathy and responsibility, understanding that they're role models.
What Parents Notice
Older siblings naturally mentoring younger ones, increased patience with friends who are learning, and confidence that comes from being both teacher and student.
Your Next Step: See Our Balanced Approach
Reading about Montessori is helpful, but watching your child's eyes light up through their self-seeking discovery is transformative.
During your visit, you'll observe:
The calm, purposeful atmosphere of our work cycle
Children choosing challenging work independently
Our teachers guide without interfering
The joy of mastery on young faces
After 22 years and four thriving locations across West London, we've refined Montessori education to deliver what modern families need: children who are
Independent thinkers and academically prepared,
Confident individuals and collaborative team members,
Creative souls and disciplined learners.
Book your observation visit to see why parents who initially worried about choosing between independence and academics now tell us they're grateful they didn't have to.
Want to understand more about how we blend Montessori with the British curriculum? Explore our EYFS integration approach or discover our comprehensive School Readiness Program.
Common Questions About Montessori
Is it too academic for young children?
Our approach follows each child's readiness. A two-year-old polishing a mirror isn't being pushed academically – they're developing concentration. When they show interest in letters at three, we provide sandpaper letters. The academics emerge from development, not force.
Will they cope with traditional school structure?
Reception teachers consistently report our graduates adapt better than peers. Three years of work cycles give them their own time management. Mixed-age collaboration develops social flexibility. Most importantly, they are empowered to know that learning brings as much joy as they choose. They're active participants in their education from day one.
What about creativity and play?
The concentration developed during morning work enhances afternoon creative expression. Children who can focus on practical life for 20 minutes bring that same intensity to painting, construction, and imaginative play. Structure doesn't limit creativity - it provides the skills to express it.
Some words from parents
We've seen such amazing progress in her development, and it's clear she's both happy and thriving. The facilities are excellent, and what we appreciate most is how she's always encouraged to be herself in such a nurturing and supportive environment.
Norwood Green Review
Review On Google
My 2-year-old only attended for a few months but made huge progress. I could see the difference in his confidence and social skills. I am very grateful to the Lilac Room team for all their support. Even the office and management staff are very attentive and professional. Thank you Snowflakes.
Grand Union Village Review
Review on Daynurseries
Download Our Parent Pack
more information
Northolt (Grand Union Village):
8 Higham Mews
NORTHOLT,
UB5 6FP
Phone:
02088458998
Regulatory Authority ID:
EY394004
Date Registered by
Regulatory Authority:
10 Sep 2009
Southall (off Lady Margaret Road):
100 Carlyle Avenue,
SOUTHALL,
UB1 2BL
Phone:
02085716378
Regulatory Authority ID:
EY393991
Date Registered by
Regulatory Authority:
02 Dec 2009
Hanwell (Comer Crescent off Windmill Ave):
Comer Crescent,
SOUTHALL,
UB2 4XD
Phone:
02085716867
Regulatory Authority ID:
EY497465
Date Registered by
Regulatory Authority:
27 Sep 2016
St Mary's Church Hall,
Norwood Green Road,
SOUTHALL,
UB2 4LA
Phone:
02085073222
Regulatory Authority ID:
EY561899
Date Registered by
Regulatory Authority:
07 Aug 2018