Green Story

Originally founded in 1997 as the Orchard Montessori Friends School in Portsmouth, in 2000 founder Alica Johnson-Grafe decided to expand the school . Under the new banner Brixham Montessori Friends School, the independent private school – now based in York – has grown from a student base of eight to almost 100, with curricula for toddlers, preschoolers and elementary students alike.

With dual roots in the traditions of both Montessori (an educational philosophy which champions independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological development) and the Quaker-inspired Friends movement, Brixham prides itself on values of simplicity, equality, community, and peace education.

While public school systems around the country struggle with the consequences of ever-ballooning class sizes, Brixham’s 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio assures that every student gets the attention – and the creative encouragement –they deserve.

Combining a dedicated staff with a commitment to partnering with parents and students, Brixham is a model of forward-thinking education. With programs in language, math, foreign languages, fine arts, music, as well as “sensorial and everyday living,” Brixham offers a well-rounded program designed to nurture “the whole child.” Lately, that has meant an increased emphasis on unique green programs including composting (the resulting scraps from which are used to feed the chickens as well as the school’s vegetable garden), recycling, and environmental awareness.