Optima Magazine

Relevant and Age-Appropriate

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As well as yielding a very good report overall, the latest OFSTED inspection at Haydon Hall Montessori Nursery, Eastcote, highlighted one ‘aspect of outstanding practice’ in particular: the ‘impeccable attention’ paid to our multi-faith society.

OFSTED said ‘The recognition of differing faiths, cultures and races is excellent… a positive and thorough approach to the acknowledgement and celebration of all festivals. The recently planned topics of Eid-ul-Fitr, Diwali, Hanukah and Christmas include the proposed learning objectives, the concepts staff wish to cover and the language they will familiarise the children with. All planned activities are relevant and age appropriate. For example, the traditional home corner area would be transformed to be reflective of the family celebrations that would take place at that time, cleaning, buying new clothes, gifts and the preparation of food.’

The report adds: ‘The displays… provide good evidence of the activities undertaken and the participation of the children and their families. The children re-visit their enjoyment and learning of these celebrations by requesting the relevant action songs and stories learnt, time and time again.’

The nursery is set in parkland, and has five classrooms, plus a separate activities room and an ‘outdoor classroom’.

The nursery operates term time only and takes children aged two to five. The superb team of qualified and caring teachers is supported by visiting specialist teachers for French, Ballet, music and gym. See www.HaydonHall.co.uk for more information.