ABOUT US
Rooted in nature, guided by Montessori
Cedarwood Montessori was originally founded in South Hams in 2015 as Skylarks Primary. When it moved to its current home at the Seale Hayne estate in 2020, it took a new name — and a new sense of place. Established by Dyane Osborne, a qualified Montessori Teacher, Cedarwood offers a flexible, environmentally conscious education for primary-aged children.
A team of qualified teachers and specialist sessional workers use imagination, conviction and empathy to redefine the relationship children have with the environment and with one another. Together, we explore themes of sustainability, simplicity and social responsibility as threads that run through daily life — not abstract ideals, but living practices.
OUR ETHOS
Learning aligned with nature
Cedarwood is built on the work of Dr Maria Montessori and the teachings of E.F. Schumacher. Our programme is collaborative and project-led, with direct teaching woven in where it serves the child. The holistic approach we take attempts to bring education into alignment with the fundamental realities of nature — which, at its core, is interrelated and dynamic.
We also incorporate Non-Violent Communication (NVC) and restorative practice into our daily interactions, understanding that how we speak to one another is as formative as what we learn.
OUR AIMS
To draw forth, not pour in
Our emphasis on nature-based learning supports the formal academic programme whilst bringing a sense of balance between knowledge and skill. We do not see education as a process of cramming information in. We prefer to honour the Latin root of the word — "educere" — meaning to draw forth or lead out.
Teachers do not force the learning process. Within a carefully prepared environment, children are trusted to engage with material in the way that is most alive for them.
COMMUNITY
A network of shared responsibility
Children, staff and parents and carers form a network that results in a strong sense of community. Cedarwood provides regular opportunities for all families to come together and celebrate the life of the setting.
Near Christmas, we gather for the children's performance, a moment of joy, creativity and mince pies. As summer draws in, we come together for our end-of-year fair and picnic, taking time to reflect on and celebrate everything the children have grown into over the course of the year.
A great deal of thought is given to both the indoor and outdoor prepared environment. Aesthetic care is applied equally to the meadow, the raised planters and the classroom, because we believe that beauty itself teaches.
Each member of the Cedarwood community is given real tasks and responsibilities, because we believe that being genuinely part of a community and team is one of the most powerful ways a child learns to value themselves and the world around them.
"A classroom, beautifully organised, is like a breath of fresh air — nourishing and full of opportunity."
— Dyane Osborne, 2007
Our Principles
The values that guide every step of our shared journey
Nature-Led Connection
We believe learning should be rooted in the living world, fostering a deep, life-long respect for the rhythms of nature.
Collaborative Growth
Our community thrives through thoughtful communication and a shared commitment to supporting each child’s unique path.
Social Responsibility
We nurture empathy and awareness, teaching children the importance of their role within the wider community and the earth.