Curiosity
Self-directed discovery. Children choose purposeful, hands-on work from materials prepared to their own level and interests — building focus one activity at a time.
A home-from-home Montessori setting
The Apple Tree House is a private home-from-home childminding service regulated by Ofsted, enrolling children aged 6 months to school age. We are open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
Our vision · Intent
Nestled on Lonsdale Road in the heart of Notting Hill, The Apple Tree House Montessori provides a nurturing, home-from-home environment for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Rooted in the Montessori philosophy and aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), our thoughtfully designed setting fosters independence, creativity and self-discovery.
Activities are purposefully displayed at children's eye level, promoting freedom of choice and engagement. Through hands-on learning and collaborative play, children are encouraged to explore at their own pace, building confidence, resilience and a love for learning.
We wholeheartedly embrace Maria Montessori's belief that
Play is the work of the child.Maria MontessoriOur vision is to empower children to be independent, joyful, and fearless in taking calculated risks. We aim to nurture their confidence and communication skills, preparing them for a lifetime of growth and achievement.
At The Apple Tree House Montessori, we value strong partnerships with parents to support each child's unique journey. Together, we create an authentic, warm and inclusive environment where every child thrives. We look forward to welcoming your little one into our warm, engaging and inspiring environment.
What guides us
Self-directed discovery. Children choose purposeful, hands-on work from materials prepared to their own level and interests — building focus one activity at a time.
Seen, heard, celebrated. A gentle, home-from-home atmosphere where every child's voice matters and individuality is welcomed with warmth.
Practical life skills. Caring for self, others and the environment builds the independence and confidence children carry for life.
A day with us
The children play both indoors and outdoors every day. We go to the park, head along to stay and play sessions, and fill the rest of the day with lots of activities — painting, cooking, gardening, singing and stories.
Sleep, feeding and comfort routines follow your child's own rhythm rather than a timetable, especially for our youngest.
See the whole dayA glimpse inside
Our prepared environmentOne of each thing, at child height
Sensorial workMatching by touch alone
Practical lifeWashing, chopping, serving
Early numberQuantity meets numeral
The herb bedCan you smell the rosemary?
Out in the gardenClimbing, balancing, judging risk
Woodland walksHi-vis on, into the trees
Parent voices
“From the very first visit, we felt that Apple Tree House was a warm and nurturing place where our daughter could truly be herself. She has become so much more independent and confident, and every day she comes home excited to tell us what she discovered.
“We love the calm, personal atmosphere at Apple Tree House. Our son is encouraged to do things for himself while always having gentle guidance when he needs it. It feels like a little community, rather than simply a nursery, and that has meant so much to our family.
“Choosing a Montessori setting for our daughter was important to us, and Apple Tree House has exceeded our expectations. We have seen such a lovely change in her confidence, concentration and independence. She genuinely looks forward to going in each morning, which says everything.
From the house
The children filled every pot along the back wall. We will be watching for the first green shoots after Christmas.
The tree gave us more than we could carry. Everything went into crumble, made from start to finish by the children.
Fresh sets of matching cards have arrived, chosen around what the older children have been most curious about.