We are a Montessori primary school and use a full Montessori curriculum from 4-11 years. Through teaching a Montessori curriculum we will also ensure that children cover the National Curriculum and so gain both all the advantages of Montessori education and are able to transfer well to senior schools. DNS teachers will have high expectations, encouraging questioning and discussion.

We have mixed aged classes, typically with two year groups per class: reception and year one, year two and three, year four and year five and then a separate year six class. Each will have a class size of approximately 16 children.

The Montessori curriculum covers the traditional core subjects, English, Mathematics and Science, History and Geography, RE, I.T, Music, Art, Crafts, Drama, and P.E including swimming, dance and gymnastics. Latin and French will also be taught. However the style of learning is different, with an emphasis on 1:1, small group teaching and independent learning rather than whole class teaching.

Montessori equipment ensures that children can understand abstract concepts through concrete materials. This principle gives children a very solid grasp of complex ideas at a young age, and helps them to do well in their later years.

See here for more details of how children progress up as they move up the school.

Teaching occurs in mostly 1:1 or small groups - ensuring your child is neither bored or left behind but rather taught at the right level for them. Children are also given the opportunity to work independently, for uninterrupted periods in a concentrated way.

Montessori equipment is particularly effective in giving children a good mathematical grounding. English and Language work provide a great understanding of language and grammar. Boys and girls are allowed to read what interests them and we use their interests to develop a love of reading and acquiring knowledge.

Personal experience is important and so you will find that outside visits will be part of most topics and that multi sensory equipment is used extensively.

Discovery children will emerge as thoughtful, enthusiastic people with the confidence and skills to continue learning and succeeding.