An exciting, caring learning environment where children blossom in all areas of development.

Our approach to learning follows Montessori's philosophy of encouraging children to develop individually in a happy, friendly and caring environment, fostering natural curiosity and creativity.

Young children do not need to be taught, for learning is a natural process. They have an innate sensitivity towards their own development. What we call play is the young child's work, and they show a hunger to develop their intelligence, to learn to master their movements and to explore and order their impressions of the world - for that they need to be free. Naturally enough, children need simple boundaries and ground rules to give healthy support to that freedom and to aid them in the development of self-discipline.
In the early years, children learn a vast amount by virtue of what

Dr. Montessori called 'the absorbent mind', which is an unconscious process, literally soaking up information from the environment. They also learn by imitation and have a natural instinct for growth and development. They need good 'role models' both at home and at pre-school. Here at Cherry Tree Montessori we have a special sensitivity towards this process and towards the nurturing of positive self-esteem for each child.

Cherry Tree Montessori Nursery is located adjacent to the Ringwood Forest in the village of Ashley Heath, providing a picturesque and natural setting. We are conveniently located less than 1 mile from the A31/A338 junction close to Ringwood.

Activities such as cooking, music and movement, caring for the Nursery's pets and art and craft are incorporated into the children's day.

Our secure garden is an extension of the classroom which allows the children to both learn and play by growing flowers and vegetables and exploring the natural world.

We are a small, close-knit nursery, OFSTED registered for 20 children. We accept Childcare Vouchers and receive local authority funding for children aged 3 and 4 years old.

We are open all year, from 8.00am to 5:30pm, excluding English Bank Holidays and a period of closure over the Christmas period. We accept children on a full or part-time basis from the age of 2 years old.