Set within 10 acres of beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, Forest Farm Montessori Nursery offers a warm, nurturing start to early education.

As part of the Oxford Millwood School community, the nursery offers a nurturing early years experience in a natural, spacious setting that inspires curiosity, confidence and a love of learning.

Founded in 2000, Forest Farm is uniquely placed within the wider school community, sharing its rural site with our Primary and Senior classes. This creates a rich, connected learning environment where children begin their journey at nursery and can continue through to primary, senior school and even their GCSEs.

Children aged 2 to 5/6 years learn in calm, beautifully prepared classrooms designed to spark independence. With small class sizes and close guidance from qualified teachers, every child is supported to explore, grow and thrive.

 

Our nursery follows a child-centred approach that encourages independence, curiosity, and active learning:

  • A carefully planned environment that supports exploration and discovery
  • Opportunities for children to make choices and develop confidence within clear routines and expectations
  • Hands-on activities across all areas of learning, closely aligned with the EYFS Framework
  • Regular observation and responsive planning to ensure each child progresses at their own pace

Children learn through a range of high-quality resources and experiences, alongside Read Write Inc., to support early language and reading development. Practitioners guide, observe and nurture each child’s learning, ensuring they feel engaged, appropriately challenged, and supported to thrive.

 

An Outdoor-Rich Experience

Outdoor learning is a defining part of life at Forest Farm. Children spend at least 20% of their time outside, making the most of the nursery’s exceptional surroundings.

Our site features:

  • A private garden and adventure playground
  • A greenhouse, wildlife areas and willow domes
  • Footpaths and meadows to explore
  • A 2,000-tree coppice wood—home to Forest School–style activities

Children learn about seasonal change, nature, wildlife and the environment through real experiences. They develop practical skills, confidence and a sense of belonging in the natural world.

Every child is valued for who they are.

Our inclusive approach means we identify and reduce barriers so all children can take part fully in nursery life. We work closely with families and support children with a range of needs, including those for whom English is an additional language.

Highly trained staff, excellent adult–child ratios and a calm, respectful atmosphere create a setting where children feel secure and able to flourish.