Forest School inspired learning for 2 to 5 year olds in Rickmansworth.
“We believe a child’s development flourishes when there is a gentle balance between indoor learning, within our intentionally prepared rooms and garden, and outdoor exploration in the forest. That’s why we dedicate two days each week to forest learning as an enriching extracurricular activity, where nature becomes the child’s guide, teacher, and inspiration.”
Our nursery is located just a five minute walk from magical places like the Bury Grounds natural spaces where children’s imaginations are free to run wild. We beautifully blend the Montessori philosophy with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum and forest learning, creating a rich and holistic learning experience. Children thrive in these outdoor environments, where free play, fresh air, connection with nature, and physical activity are all cherished parts of their forest learning journey, which takes place two days a week.
The Bury Grounds Where We Nurture Young Minds in Nature’s Classroom
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- 5 Minutes walk
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- Bury Grounds
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- Bury Grounds
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- Bury Grounds
Montessori and Forest Schooling
Montessori principles and nature based learning are at the heart of holistic education, nurturing every aspect of a child’s development. These approaches encourage independence, spark curiosity, and deepen a child’s connection to the natural world, laying the foundation for a love of learning and emotional resilience.
“There is no description, no image in any book that is capable of replacing the sight of real trees, and all the life to be found around them, in a real forest. Something emanates from those trees which speaks to the soul, something no book, no museum is capable of giving.” – Dr MARIA MONTESSORI
Why Nature is Central to Montessori Philosophy
In the Montessori Method, We Believe Nature is a Gentle Teacher of the Heart, Mind, and Soul. Nature is not only a beautiful part of childhood, it is essential to it. Dr Maria Montessori, held a deep and enduring respect for the natural world and its role in a child’s growth. She recognised that when children are given the freedom to explore the outdoors, they don’t just learn facts, they form a connection with the earth that shapes who they become.
We encourage children to experience nature directly with all their senses fully alive. No photograph or book can ever replicate the feeling of sunlight filtering through trees or the sound of birds singing in the early morning. These real world encounters nurture curiosity, creativity, and joy.
“Nature invites children to pause, to notice, and to fall in love with the world around them. In these moments, deep learning begins…”
Children see the world differently from adults. In Montessori, we understand that they absorb everything around them not just with their minds, but with their hearts. We believe that nature becomes a part of the child shaping their spirit, their sense of peace, and their understanding of life.
Montessori education encourages children to become stewards of the planet. By guiding them to observe, care for, and respect nature, we help nurture a lifelong sense of responsibility and gratitude for our world.
“The land is where our roots are. The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the Earth.” Dr Maria Montessori
Children have an inborn desire to explore. We support children as they follow their curiosity, take in their surroundings, and develop a deep connection to the natural rhythms of life. Montessori’s vision is one of hope. Through meaningful, joyful experiences in nature, children become grounded, kind, and open hearted individuals.
“The child who has felt a strong love for his surroundings and for all living creatures, who has discovered joy and enthusiasm in work, gives us reason to hope that humanity can develop in a new direction.” Dr Maria Montessori
“We honour the child’s deep bond with Nature. The natural world touches the child in a way nothing else can. Dr Montessori saw nature as essential not just for learning, but for becoming. Through this connection, we believe we are not only nurturing capable, compassionate learners but hopeful, responsible caretakers of our planet’s future.”
Recommended Kit List
Forest Essentials
To help your child feel comfortable and ready for their day, please bring the items listed below to nursery, clearly labelled with your child’s name. We also kindly ask that all valuables are kept at home.
A quick note about the weather:
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On rainy or drizzly days, as we often encounter muddy paths on our way into the forest, we ask that children arrive wearing their waterproofs. This helps us leave on time and keeps their clothes dry and clean before the day begins.
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On sunny days, please apply the first layer of sunscreen before drop-off. We’ll then reapply it every 3–4 hours or as needed. If you’d prefer us to use a specific sunscreen, just let the team know and feel free to send it in with your child.
Kit lists
What your child will need:
Each child should bring a named water bottle and a backpack suitable for outdoor use ideally one they can comfortably carry themselves.
Summer Clothing Essentials:
- Summer waterproofs
- One pair of comfortable trousers (jogging bottoms, leggings, or Roarsome fleece trousers)
- One t-shirt or a light long-sleeved top
- A fleecy zip-up jacket or Roarsome fleece jacket (packed in the backpack just in case)
- One pair of socks
- Wellies or sturdy closed-toe shoes (that can get wet and muddy)
- A sun hat for sunny days
- Spare trousers and socks in the backpack (ideally more than one set, plus underwear if your child is toilet training)
We recommend applying an all-day sunscreen before arriving at nursery.
What to Wear in Spring/Autumn
- Waterproofs
- One pair of comfortable trousers (jogging bottoms, leggings, or Roarsome fleece trousers)
- One long-sleeved t-shirt or top
- One warm jumper
- A fleecy zip-up jacket or Roarsome fleece jacket (packed in the backpack just in case)
- Two pairs of socks: a thin wool or wool-blend pair underneath, with a thick wool or fluffy thermal pair on top
- Wellies or sturdy closed-toe shoes (that can get wet and muddy)
- Spare trousers and socks in the backpack (ideally more than one set, plus underwear if your child is toilet training)
What to Wear in Winter
During the winter months, activities will go ahead only if the weather conditions are safe and still allow children to enjoy and benefit from their time at forest
- Winter waterproofs
- Base layer: thermal top and bottoms
- Bottom layer: fleece trousers, warm tracksuit bottoms, or Roarsome fleece trousers
- Top layers:
- First: long-sleeved thermal top
- Second: light jumper or long-sleeved t-shirt
- Third: fleece jacket or Roarsome fleece jacket
- Neck snood
- Warm hat and gloves (please pack several spares. Didriksons mittens are great for colder weather)
- Four pairs of socks: start with a thin wool or wool-blend pair, then a thick wool or fluffy thermal pair; include two additional spare pairs in the backpack
- Extra jumper(s) packed in the backpack for particularly chilly days
- Snow boots or warm, sturdy outdoor boots suitable for muddy and wet conditions
Our clothing recommendations
Feet
In mild weather, we recommend wellies worn with two pairs of socks, first a thin cotton pair, followed by a thick wool or fluffy bed sock (like those found near the checkout at H&M or the super cosy Heat Holder socks).
As temperatures drop further, we recommend snow boots from Happy Little Soles.
Heads
A warm hat is essential during the colder months. JoJo Maman Bébé offers some lovely cosy options, though they’re not waterproof. On wet days, children can simply pop up their hoods to stay dry.
Hands
We recommend thick, waterproof ski gloves for colder weather. Didriksons make excellent mittens for keeping little hands warm. However, many children find bulky gloves restrictive. As an alternative, we suggest multipacks of woollen gloves, such as those available online from H&M.
On especially cold days, layering fleece mittens over woollen gloves can help keep hands extra warm and comfortable.
More on the intentionally prepared environment we offer for all age groups
At Blooming Tulips Montessori, we cater 0 to 5 years old little adventurers, nurturing their development with authentic passion for care and education through a child-centered approach.
For babies aged 12 weeks to 18 months old (Nido)
In Italian, a Montessori space designed for infants is called nido, which means “nest.” The space expresses all the warmth, love and attachment from the womb. A serene ambience for little ones to feel at ease and snug. It provides a nurturing space for infants aged 12 weeks to 18 months old. Our trained educators care for the little one’s every developmental whimper, aiding their journey to independence while warmly observing their growth and inquisitive explorations.
For children aged 18 months to 2.5-3 years old (Infant Community)
From their newfound independence to remarkable achievements of physical movement, communication, problem-solving ability and social interactions, children between the ages of 18 months and 2.5-3 years thrive during a crucial developmental phase. Our Toddler program nurtures and maximises their potential, providing a compassionate and supportive environment for our youngest learners.
For children aged 2.5-3 to 5 years old (Children’s House)
Our scientifically-designed, carefully crafted program for young ones aged 2.5-3 to 5, focuses on developing knowledge, confidence and social skills. They’ll direct their own activities, building knowledge, confidence, and social skills. Our educator’s gentle encouragement helps the children to utilise all the available materials, to explore practical life activities, geography and mathematics. Our aim is to nourish young minds and encourage growth in a compassionate and nurturing environment.
Forest School inspired learning for 2 to 5 years old
We believe a child’s development flourishes when there is a gentle balance between indoor learning, within our intentionally prepared rooms and garden, and outdoor exploration in the forest. That’s why we dedicate two days each week to forest learning, where nature becomes the child’s guide, teacher, and inspiration.
Our nursery is located just a five minute walk from magical places like The Bury Grounds natural spaces where children’s imaginations are free to run wild. We beautifully blend the Montessori philosophy with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum and forest learning, creating a rich and holistic learning experience. Children thrive in these outdoor environments, where free play, fresh air, connection with nature, and physical activity are all cherished parts of their forest learning journey, which takes place two days a week.
Parents, Let’s work together!
“Your child is a unique individual with boundless potential and possibilities. By working together, we can unlock the doors to a life full of excitement and fulfilment. We can inspire young learners to embrace a life-long love for learning. From thinking mathematically to creating masterpieces, let’s nurture your child’s unique potential. Help your child to discover their capabilities and build deep foundational values that will serve them well through adulthood. Let’s help them become unstoppable forces of good in the world. Together we can do this.” Dilia