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Little Diggers Montessori in Chichester (PO20 7DL)

Ofsted: Good
(May 2024)
·Itchenor Memorial Hall, Itchenor Road, Chichester, PO20 7DL · West Sussex
Number of places
26 places
Age range
1–5 yrs
Last inspected
May 2024
Local authority
West Sussex

About this day nursery

Little Diggers Montessori offers a unique childcare experience with three distinct nurseries in Chichester: Sidlesham, Bosham, and Itchenor. All locations are deeply rooted in the Montessori philosophy and emphasise outdoor learning through dedicated on-site Forest Schools.

Children are encouraged to explore the natural environment, fostering curiosity and a connection with nature. The nurseries provide ample green space, woodland areas, edible gardens, and even animal care, including a nursery dog and a tortoise in the works.

The approach combines the structured learning of Montessori with the adventurous spirit of Forest School, aiming to develop happy, resilient, creative, and critical-thinking children with a lifelong love for learning. The team consists of highly qualified and experienced Early Years Specialists and degree-level Qualified Teachers who guide children in all weathers, whether in woodlands, gardens, or at the beach.

Little Diggers Montessori celebrates children as natural explorers, providing them with the space and freedom to learn and achieve.

Our ethos

Little Diggers Montessori Ltd is founded on the Montessori philosophy, integrated with Forest School principles. This approach encourages children to be natural explorers, fostering curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning through outdoor exploration in natural environments. The nurseries unique offering combines structured Montessori learning with the adventurous spirit of Forest School.

What it's like

Staff welcome the children into the nursery and are eager to listen to their exciting stories. Children are happy in this safe environment and have formed special bonds with all the staff. The manager provides an ambitious curriculum with thoroughly planned activities that ensure a significant impact on each child's learning and development.

Montessori ApproachForest SchoolOutdoor LearningOn-site AnimalsQualified Teachers

Pricing & funding

Pricing on request

This nursery doesn't publish its fees online. Contact them directly for an up-to-date price list and availability.

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Key facts

Opening hours

Sidlesham: 8am-6pm; Itchenor (Pre-School & Little School): 8am-4pm; Bosham: 7:30am-6pm

Session types

All year round (Sidlesham, Bosham), Term-time only (Itchenor)

Age range

3 months to 8 years (varies by location)

Term time / All Year

Term Time

Ofsted Inspection

Ofsted rating for Little Diggers Montessori

Last inspected 20 May 2024 · Harriet Povey

Safeguarding effective
Overall effectiveness
Good
Quality of education
Good
Behaviour and attitudes
Good
Personal development
Good
Leadership and management
Good

What it's like to attend

Staff welcome the children into the nursery and are eager to listen to their exciting stories. Children are happy in this safe environment and have formed special bonds with all the staff. The manager provides an ambitious curriculum with thoroughly planned activities that ensure a significant impact on each child's learning and development.

Inspector highlights

  • The manager has high expectations for all her staff, which they thrive on.
  • Children behave well and have a positive attitude to their learning.
  • Children have strong communication and language skills, supported by various activities like "show-and-tell" and phonic lessons.
  • The special educational needs coordinator has extensive knowledge on how to support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
  • Staff have a great relationship with the local schools, children's families, and other settings.

Areas to develop

  • 1strengthen staff's skills in recognising and responding to opportunities to support children's mathematical development even further.
Inspection #10339419 · Source: OfstedView full Ofsted report

Inclusion & environment

How they support every child

SEND provision

The special educational needs coordinator has extensive knowledge on how to support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff work closely with parents and relevant agencies to provide the best support for all children, ensuring all children progress in their development.

Outdoor space

The manager ensures that all events are assessed for risk, including the inside and outside areas of the nursery. Children access a range of sharp tools during forest school sessions and know when and how to use them.

Inspection history

Most recent inspection

14 June 2024

Good

Only one graded inspection on record — a trend chart will appear here once a second graded report is published.

View full Ofsted report

Frequently asked about Little Diggers Montessori

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