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Oxford Montessori Schools, established in 1990 by Judith Walker and Daniel Ardizzone, is one of only a handful of UK schools offering a through-school experience for ages two to 16. Montessori schools place an emphasis on hands-on learning and developing real-world skills through child-led activities which allow pupils to work at their own pace. The school is known for its non-academically selective admissions, good academic track record, and excellent Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection result.
It operates from two locations - Wolvercote Montessori, for ages two to five, and Forest Farm, which provides a Montessori nursery, junior, and senior school for ages two to 16. After 35 years, Ms Walker and Mr Ardizzone decided to sell Oxford Montessori Schools to explore new opportunities. Following a competitive sale process with Courteney Donaldson and Jassi Sunner at specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, it was sold to Outcomes First Group.
Outcomes First Group is a recognised leader in delivering personalised education through a portfolio of schools in the UK and internationally. The acquisition supports the expansion of its mainstream all-ability division, Blenheim Schools. Oxford Montessori Schools' previous owners will continue to support Outcomes First Group as consultants in the near future.
Ms Walker said: "Daniel and I are very proud to hand Oxford Montessori Schools over to Blenheim Schools as we grew more and more certain that an organisation with greater resources would sustain our legacy and nurture the wonderful staff team we have developed over so many years." David Leatherbarrow, group CEO at Outcomes First Group, added: "We are thrilled to welcome Oxford Montessori Schools into the group. "With its outstanding 35-year legacy of delivering personalised, progressive education, the school’s values and vision align seamlessly with our own.
"This is a hugely positive step forward as we continue to expand our reach and support even more pupils with the tailored, high-quality education they deserve." Courteney Donaldson, managing director of childcare and education at Christie & Co, said: "We are delighted to have assisted Daniel and Judith in this transaction. "Having founded Oxford Montessori Schools so many years ago, as directors and educators, the service they have created, grown, and nurtured is truly exceptional.
"Deciding to sell was incredibly difficult for them, but Outcomes First Group was swiftly identified as an ideal candidate for the future of the business and its operations with shared cultures. "It has been a pleasure to support, guide, and assist Daniel and Judith throughout this process, and we wish them all the very best for the future.".
