North Norwich nurseries and Montessori dilemma

[Gemmasmummy]

Has anyone had experience of the Jigsaw and Little People nurseries in Norwich? I have been to see them both with a view of my ds starting next year when she is 3. Both seem OK and have good OFTSED reports, however my husband had doubts about Jigsaw because they had loud background music playing and watch 20 mins' TV a day, also the staff didn't seem very enthusiastic. They did have more space including a lovely outdoor play area though, and food is cooked on the premises, rather than being brought in (as happens at Little People). Little People nursery is Montessori which I have heard is very good, but more expensive, extra £5 a day, though I will get funding for most of it. Montessori is less structured and more child-centred, which probably suits preschool children. But wouldn't it then be harder to adapt to mainstream education? If anyone has sent their kids to either of these nurseries or knows someone who has, or has any experience of Montessori, please reply!

No experience of either of these - but I always think trust your gut instincts about the people who will look after your baby. Don't worry about lack of structure for 3 year olds - reception class at 'big' school is pretty unstructured anyway.

Thanks for the advice. I think gut feeling is what it comes down to in the end, the OFTSED reports can only tell you so much.

Thanks for the advice. I think gut feeling is what it comes down to in the end, the OFTSED reports can only tell you so much.

Thanks for the advice. I think gut feeling is what it comes down to in the end, the OFTSED reports can only tell you so much.

Hi - have posted on the Norfolk thread about Jigsaw, but it was a few years ago when my friends children were there, so perhaps it's not as good now. Although I can't see where a bit of TV would hurt, it's much like being at home I suppose. I've seen there's a lovely new nursery at the UEA, but that's probably too far out your way. Also there's a Just Learning nursery at the airport, but don't know anything about that. My DS is almost 4 and attends only the local pre-school, so can't really offer any first hand experience!