LUCKINGTON Pre-school is gearing up for a major fundraising campaign to enable the school to run a full Montessori teaching programme next year.

Committee member Toby Lorford said although the pre-school was currently providing learning based on basic Montessori principles, it would not be able to become the district's only fully-fledged Montessori pre-school until it had acquired Montessori play and educational equipment.

The equipment will cost in the region of £5,000, and the committee is looking at various fundraising initiatives early next year to raise the money.

Mr Lorford said: "We are going to fight tooth and nail to make sure we get it going."

The committee hoped to gain the support and enthusiasm of parents last Thursday by holding an open information morning about Montessori methods and beliefs.

Mr Lorford said: "One of the aims is to teach the whole child, physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. Such an approach helps children gain self-confidence and independence."

Parents who want to know more about Montessori are invited to contact the pre-school's leader, Christine Ashton, on (01666) 840986.