05/09/2026
A clarification regarding our Montessori School expansion.
Following comments which have been brought to my attention by numerous parents and friends, I would like to take the opportunity to clarify a few points.
The expansion of our Montessori School has been undertaken in response to a very real and much-needed gap in childcare provision. Our aim is to provide more childcare places for families in our local community and surrounding areas at a time when demand far exceeds supply.
This expansion has also involved creating employment for four members of staff, providing four additional local job opportunities within the childcare sector. Following this, we are also providing valuable work-experience opportunities for local students, giving young people the opportunity to gain practical experience within a childcare setting.
Since we opened our doors in 2010, almost 17 years ago, I have consistently recommended local childminders to families who have approached us looking for full-time childcare when we were unable to provide what they needed. I have always believed that local childcare providers should support one another, particularly when there are simply not enough childcare places available.
Our transition from Sessional Montessori to Full Day Care has brought with it a number of challenges and unexpected complications. Unfortunately, one of these has resulted in some ECCE-only places having to be cancelled. This is not a decision I wanted to make, nor is it a situation within my control.
Where this has affected families, we have tried to provide alternative options wherever possible — including offering Full Day Care places or placing children on a waiting list. These options are being offered in an effort to help affected families rather than leave them with no childcare option at all. It is also important to clarify that parents affected by these changes are being given between one and two years’ notice.
I would genuinely welcome another childcare service or facility opening in our village. Our population is growing, and we need more childcare places, not fewer. There is room for everyone who wants to provide a quality service to local families.
The reality is that the childcare sector is facing enormous pressure, with a shortage of places affecting communities across the country — not just our village. This is a much bigger issue than one childcare provider competing with another.
I have worked extremely hard to build our Montessori School and to provide a quality, reliable service to local families. I will continue to do so.
I have no desire to engage in rumours, negativity or conflict. My priority is, and always has been, the children and families who place their trust in us.
I hope this clarifies the situation for anyone who may have heard otherwise.
