Business Details
32 Years
experience
Trusted Montessori Nurseries in Leicester
Lilliput Montessori is an employee-owned nursery group based in Leicester with over 30 years of experience in childcare. Founded in 1994 by Sam and Paul Graveling, we specialise in premium day care for children aged 0 to 5 years, combining Montessori principles with the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Our philosophy prioritises children's emotional and educational development through hands-on learning, supported by dedicated key-carers and innovative tools like the Tapestry app for parental engagement. We operate five nurseries across Leicestershire, including Anstey, Glenfield, Coalville, Whetstone, and Leicester Forest East.Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through ongoing staff training, Forest School programmes, and pursuit of Healthy Tots accreditation, which recognises our holistic approach to health, wellbeing, and physical activity. As the UK's second-ever employee-owned nursery group, we maintain a unique structure where a Trust owns a significant portion of the business on behalf of employees, ensuring our Montessori ethos remains central to all operations. We actively engage with evolving childcare practices while maintaining a focus on creating secure, nurturing environments where children thrive.
Services
Day Care
Montessori Education
Forest School
Healthy Eating Program
Tapestry App Access
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 30 years of Montessori childcare expertise
- Employee-owned structure prioritising child welfare
- Forest School outdoor learning programmes
- Healthy Tots accredited healthy eating initiatives
- Digital progress tracking via Tapestry app
Associations and certifications
- Healthy Tots
Services
Day Care
Our premium day care service provides safe, stimulating environments for children aged 0-5 years. Qualified staff deliver individualised care aligned with Montessori principles and the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Each child receives dedicated attention through assigned key-carers who monitor development and maintain regular parent communication.
Montessori Education
We implement Maria Montessori's proven educational approach through specially designed materials and self-directed learning activities. Our curriculum fosters independence, concentration, and a love of learning while meeting statutory requirements through the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Daily activities develop practical life skills, sensory awareness, and academic foundations.
Forest School
Our Forest School programme delivers woodland-based education that builds confidence and resilience through hands-on outdoor experiences. Children engage with nature through structured activities that develop physical coordination, environmental awareness, and creative problem-solving skills while following strict safety protocols and age-appropriate learning objectives.
Healthy Eating Program
Our comprehensive nutrition programme educates children about healthy food choices through practical experiences and balanced meals. We follow Healthy Tots accreditation standards to promote lifelong healthy eating habits, with menus developed in partnership with nutrition experts and opportunities for children to participate in food preparation activities.
Tapestry App
The Tapestry app provides real-time updates on children's development, daily activities, and learning milestones. Parents receive regular photo updates, activity logs, and assessment reports through this secure digital platform, which facilitates two-way communication between families and nursery staff while maintaining strict data protection standards.
People
Sam Graveling
Co-Founder
Co-founded Lilliput Montessori in 1994 with extensive childcare experience. Continues to guide the business while maintaining Montessori principles and overseeing strategic development as part of the Trust Board.
Paul Graveling
Co-Founder
Co-founder of Lilliput Montessori with 30 years' childcare sector experience. Plays active role in nursery operations and Trust Board governance, ensuring continued adherence to Montessori educational values and high care standards.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We provide care and education for children aged 0 to 5 years across all our nursery locations.
What educational approach do you use?
We combine Montessori principles with the Early Years Foundation Stage framework to create balanced learning experiences.
How do you support healthy eating habits?
Our Healthy Tots accredited programme educates children about nutrition through balanced meals and interactive food-related activities.
How can I visit a nursery?
Contact your preferred location directly or complete our online form to arrange a convenient viewing appointment.
How do you track child development?
We use the Tapestry app for real-time updates, progress tracking, and secure communication between staff and parents.
