Fountain Montessori Nido

At Fountain Montessori Nido in March 2026, babies used a portable sink and children poured their own cereal milk: practical independence began with small everyday tasks. This Capitol Way nursery has capacity for 54 children.

At its March 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged behaviour, attitudes and routines Strong standard, the other five assessed areas Expected standard, and safeguarding standards met. The central reservation concerned uneven teaching, especially in planned experiences for babies.

In March 2026, children used Montessori equipment to explore mathematical ideas and solve problems independently. The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for learning, development and care; here, stories, songs, conversation and practical play formed part of that learning.

Books included Simply Thankful and No More Nappies, giving adults and children shared material for conversation. Signing, pictures and words from children's home languages supported communication. An adult-led activity explored Ramadan.

Outside, the March 2026 experiences included stepping stones, bikes, scooters and a spacious garden. Planting seeds and walks to a local park brought nature into the day; supermarket outings connected learning with everyday community life. These were opportunities to practise movement, explore and participate beyond the nursery rooms.

At the March 2026 inspection, Ofsted found responsive care and secure relationships, with support for children with SEND using individual plans, specialist advice and targeted activities, although staff expertise needed further development across the team.

In March 2026, adults responded to babies' gestures and offered comfort when needed. Calm spaces and predictable routines helped children manage feelings. Care plans, medical advice and sensory strategies guided support, while parents participated in decisions about additional funding.

Food was cooked on site in March 2026, and staff joined children at meals to discuss food and healthy choices. Toothbrushing followed meals, making personal care part of the daily routine.

Daily conversations and regular meetings kept parents involved at that time. Children also visited the neighbouring nursery regularly before moving to the next stage there: preparation involved familiarity with the next setting.

The address is 43 Capitol Way, London, NW9 0AW. In March 2026, opening hours were 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday; these describe the opening window at that time.

Children attending in March 2026 were aged one to two. That is the age range present at the visit, rather than a statement of today's accepted ages.

• Teaching for babies. In March 2026, some planned activities failed to engage every child sufficiently. The improvement priority was deeper curriculum understanding across staff, especially for work with babies.
• Keeping practice current. Policy and practice updates had been corrected by March 2026, but continuing vigilance remained an improvement priority. Consistent follow-through matters alongside warm daily care.
• Attendance arrangements. What attendance arrangement can be offered for your child's age?

Fountain Montessori Nido's March 2026 picture suits families who value practical independence and preparation for a move to the neighbouring nursery. Its March 2026 picture combined sociable routines, outdoor exploration and close parent communication with a clear need for more consistent teaching. Families choosing care for a baby should give that teaching priority real weight.