Anyone know anything about Maria Grey Nursery?

[pearce]

Just wondered if anyone knew anything about Maria Grey?

Tks

It is very un-Montessori if that makes sense. Very structured and there is a daily check list of tasks that children have to complete. Have one friend who sent both DCs there and she was very happy with it.

Yes! It's brilliant. My DS (now in Year 1) went there for 2 years, and DD (aged nearly 4) is in her second year there now. The teachers are lovely and there's quite a 'family' atmosphere there, it's already feeling very calm even with all the new little ones this term... I seriously cannot recommend this nursery highly enough!
It's on the premises of The Vineyard School and although they're not officially linked, Maria Grey do offer wrap-around care for new Reception children, so when they start school and are mornings only they can stay to have lunch at school (supervised by a nursery teacher) and then are escorted to Maria Grey for the afternoon session.
BTW although there is some structure, it doesn't feel in any way rigid or militant - there is plenty of 'choosing' time both indoors and out. Children are encouraged to take responsibility for tidying up, rounding up others when it's story-time, etc. so in that respect there is an element of accountability... They do have 'checklists' but they're very subtle - i.e. not something the children themselves are even necessarily aware of - and just to ensure that the children have had the opportunity to experience the various activities they have on offer on a particular day. This becomes more relevant for the older pre-school ones, when there is also more focus on independence (taking coats off and going to toilet by themselves, etc.) and on basic reading and letter formation skills.

Best thing to do is book a visit!

PS half DS's class went there; the other half went to Rainbow, which seems to be the main alternative in the Richmond Hill area and is also spoken of very highly (although I think they only offer morning sessions? might be wrong there...)

Maniacbug, Thanks so much for your info, much appreciated.
DD should get into Vineyard as we live close enough so am thinking might be good idea in order to make friends etc.
I also have her down at Kings House and The Studio in Kew. Know anything about them? I just find it all a bit daunting as you just want to make the right choice for them.
Your first hand info is a massive help though - thanks.

I know what you mean, it is a big responsibility. MG was the only one I looked at, as I felt straight away that it would be 'right' for us. No experience of The Studio I'm afraid; no direct experience of Kings House either, although a couple of friends have children at the school. Apparently the nursery is VERY well equipped - it's only been open about a year, so everything spanking new. (Also rather pricy, I understand!)
Peer group for school was one of my main considerations - and it's a bonus to get to know fellow prospective Vineyard parents too.
Also if you have, or are planning to have any more DCs, can't deny the convenience of double drop-off: school @ 8.55am then 100m stroll across the playground (there is a second door that leads directly onto Vineyard premises) to nursery for 9.00am!

If you've not had the tour yet I really recommend it - places can look great on paper, but the 'feel' of a place is so important, and only you will know what's right for your child.
Good luck with the decision-making!