St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School, operated by Wisbey, Michelle Deanna under license number EY372721, provides full-day care services for up to 34 children in Saffron Walden.

There are a total of 571 places across 12 providers in Saffron Walden.

Our Child Caring UK team has prepared this review so you can be more informed before enrolling your child in St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School.

Table of Contents

🌟  Overall Effectiveness

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School has an overall score of 2. 2 of providers in Saffron Walden share the same score.

The overall effectiveness rating for childcare evaluates key aspects such as education quality, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. It serves as a thorough assessment of how well providers meets the needs of all children, ensuring their safety, support, and steady progress in learning and development.

By assessing the collaboration between different areas of provision, Ofsted inspectors determine how well a positive and nurturing environment is maintained. A high rating signifies that children receive outstanding care, develop key skills, and are ready for their next learning milestones.

To secure an outstanding rating, St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School must demonstrate excellence in all aspects, from delivering a high-quality curriculum to maintaining outstanding teaching and a focus on continuous progress. Leadership should promote high expectations, ensuring children thrive in a structured and engaging learning space.

The score is based on the most recent inspection date as of May 17, 2022.

👩‍🏫  Quality of Education

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School has a score of 2. 37% of providers in Saffron Walden share the same score.

The quality of education rating for childcare in the UK reflects how effectively providers support children’s development within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It looks at teaching effectiveness, curriculum suitability, and the learning progress children make.

The assessment by Ofsted inspectors includes reviewing the activities on offer, the skills and knowledge children acquire, and their overall readiness for further education. High-quality providers ensure learning experiences are engaging, meaningful, and developmentally enriching.

To secure an outstanding rating, St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School must provide a well-planned and ambitious curriculum that meets the needs of all children. Teaching should be highly effective, promoting strong progress, with staff showcasing expertise in child development and fostering excellent relationships with both children and parents.

The score is based on the most recent inspection date as of May 17, 2022.

🎭  Behaviour & Attitudes

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School has a score of 2 for behaviour. 37% of providers in Saffron Walden share the same score.

In UK childcare settings, the behavior and attitudes rating reflects how well children develop self-regulation, positive behaviors, and mutual respect. It also considers their ability to focus on learning, maintain confidence, and build strong relationships with both adults and peers.

The assessment by Ofsted inspectors focuses on how staff promote good behavior, enhance emotional well-being, and instill an understanding of boundaries and expectations. A top rating indicates a nurturing environment where children feel safe, respected, and display positive behaviors.

Achieving an outstanding rating requires St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School to foster a peaceful, respectful, and supportive setting where children exhibit high levels of focus, resilience, and emotional regulation. Staff must provide clear guidance, employ effective emotional support techniques, and encourage a culture of kindness and inclusivity.

The score is based on the most recent inspection date as of May 17, 2022.

🌱  Personal Development

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School has a score of 2 for personal development. 37% of providers in Saffron Walden share the same score.

The personal development rating for childcare in the UK reflects how well St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School supports children in growing emotionally, socially, and physically. It focuses on fostering resilience, independence, and confidence while encouraging children to adopt healthy habits and explore the world around them.

In their evaluations, Ofsted inspectors look at how well childcare settings promote inclusive relationships, celebrate differences, and teach respect for others. High standards in childcare support children in developing vital social skills, self-awareness, and a sense of responsibility.

An outstanding rating is awarded when St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School establishes an environment that promotes children’s well-being and prepares them for future learning. This involves creating opportunities for children to follow their interests, build resilience, and develop positive habits in a safe, inclusive space.

The score is based on the most recent inspection date as of May 17, 2022.

👩🏻‍💻  Leadership & Management

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School has a score of 2 for personal development. 53% of providers in Saffron Walden share the same score.

In the UK, the leadership and management rating for childcare evaluates how well leaders oversee and enhance the quality of care and education. It examines their ability to support staff, uphold regulatory compliance, and sustain high standards throughout the setting.

Ofsted inspectors review the clarity of leadership, the effectiveness of communication with staff and parents, and the ability to build a supportive and inclusive environment. Strong leadership results in a well-coordinated setting where children’s needs take priority, and improvements are consistently made.

To achieve an outstanding rating, leaders must exhibit a strong vision, invest in high-quality staff training, and cultivate a culture of excellence. They should take a proactive approach to overcoming challenges, ensuring a secure and stimulating environment where children flourish.

The score is based on the most recent inspection date as of May 17, 2022.

💼  Ownership & Operations

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School is licensed to provide full-day care for up to 34 children in Essex, Saffron Walden.

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School is owned by Wisbey, Michelle Deanna, which operates 4 facilities in the UK. St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School takes contributes 24.6% of total capacity for Wisbey, Michelle Deanna.

A single-location provider can focus its resources entirely on one facility, fostering a highly personalized and community-driven approach. Larger providers, however, may offer more extensive resources, including specialized training, upgraded facilities, and well-structured curriculums. Their multi-location presence can also provide consistency for families needing flexibility or relocating.

Selecting St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School requires looking past its reputation or scale. A hands-on approach—visiting the location, asking meaningful questions, and determining if the program supports your child’s learning and growth—will lead to a more informed decision.

📜 Registry

St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School is listed in the Early Years Register and Childcare Register.

  • ✅ The Early Years Register (EYR) is a mandatory register maintained by Ofsted for childcare providers who care for children from birth to five years old. St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School is listed in the Early Years Register.
  • ✅ The Compulsory Childcare Register (CCR) in the UK is for childcare providers caring for children aged 5 to 7 years. Registration is mandatory for those offering childcare services to this age group for more than two hours a day, either on or off school premises. St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School is listed in the Compulsory Childcare Register.
  • ✅ The Voluntary Childcare Register (VCR) in the UK is an optional register for childcare providers who care for children over the age of 8 or those providing care for less than two hours a day for younger children. St. Thomas More Montessori Pre School is listed in the Voluntary Childcare Register.

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