The Maggie & Rose Village Nursery is described as “a new concept in early years learning” – could you tell us a bit more about it?
Maggie & Rose is all about creating an environment that feels like it is an extension of a family home; somewhere that children feel safe, loved and accepted. The Maggie & Rose Village Nursery is no exception. Based in a mini village environment, where little ones from 12 months to 5 years will live out a village life building a sense of community around them. Our ethos is not to force children in to education but provide them with a warm and stimulating environment where individual needs are met and nurtured. We have a super innovative timetable which will inspire the little ones, allowing them to develop at their own pace, whilst being guided by our lovely practitioners to reach their early learning goals and ultimately preparing them for the next big step to school.
Do you follow a certain method of teaching?
There will be a mix of the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) along with Montessori. At Maggie & Rose we encourage children to be independent; we believe that children strongly benefit from having freedom of choice as early as possible. The children’s daily routine will be structured around fun and creative classes including art, cooking, music & movement.
What is different about the M&R Nursery versus others?
We have created a unique curriculum and this, teamed with a visually beautiful nursery environment, means children will learn the value of their community in which they live in. Children will learn through play, creativity and exploration in the cool village areas from the Totally made up Theatre, Art Gallery and Oscar’s Café.
What is the staff/child ratio?
1-2 years group will have a staff/child ratio of: 1:3
2-3 years group will have a staff/child ratio of: 1:4
3-5 year group will have a staff/child ratio of: 1:8
From what age do you take children at the Nursery?
The Maggie & Rose Village Nursery will take children from 12 months to 5 years old.
When do you open your doors for business?
We are open from the 8th April 2013. Our first few settling weeks are full, which is fantastic, so we are now taking children to settle from 29th April 2013.
What excites you personally about this project?
It is so wonderful to be part of Maggie & Rose as they undertake their next big step in continuing to provide a truly unique environment for children and their families. The passion and creativity I have experienced since joining the team has been amazing and truly refreshing.
What is your ambition for the M&R Nursery?
Along with my team we aim to create an environment that will support children’s learning and development through a fun and stimulating program. Children who feel secure and happy within themselves learn at an exceptional rate; this will be something we will strive to build and maintain in every aspect of the nursery. We will be providing the children with essential life skills to support their future growth giving them the best start in life.
For more information on Maggie & Rose and the nursery, please visit:
Rachel was talking to Annabelle King.
