MONTESSORI nurseries across the county have seen a surge in interest due to the Prince George effect.

Parents who view the system as fit for a prince and future king, are increasingly keen to send their own children to accredited centres.

Two year old George is enrolled at the Westacre Montessori School in Norfolk. Father William, and Prince Harry also attended Montessori nurseries in west London.

Diana, Princess of Wales, worked at a Montessori kindergarten, so it’s no surprise George is following in royal footsteps.

Dr Maria Montessori started developing the system in 1897 and then opened teacher training centres all over the world to ensure her philosophy and method would be maintained through qualified leaders or ‘directresses’.

There is an emphasis on children making their own choices, a lack of tests, grading or study areas.

Instead youngsters learn through tactile objects. Sensory play is widely encouraged.

It’s a formula which has spawned an increasing number of accredited centres. Today there are 46 registered Montessori centres in Essex, with 10 in and around Colchester.

Some London nurseries have seen a two-fold increase in enrolment over the past few months, others have long waiting lists.

But what exactly is the ‘Montessori method’ and why is it so popular?

Cheryl Knight, principal of the award-winning Mulberry Bush Nursery in Melrose Road, West Mersea, explained: “The Montessori Approach focuses on the whole child, tapping into individual personalities and abilities.

“It shares many of the key principles and themes of the Early Years Foundation Stage framework (EVFS) which every early year’s provider must now prescribe.

“We work hard to develop positive parent partnerships, sharing information and valuing the family and home learning environment. It’s an holistic approach.

“While we believe it is important to value children as unique and as individuals, we also recognise they are part of a family and a community.”

The Montessori way may be a mystery to some parents, but the success of the Mulberry Bush is there for all to see.

It was awarded ‘outstanding’ by OFSTED inspectors following its most recent glowing report.

They commented: ‘Children’s progress in personal, social and emotional development is outstanding. Capable, strong and sensitive management enables staff, parents and children to feel valued and empowered.”

There is a strong focus on inclusion.

Children of all abilities and backgrounds benefit from the method. Most recently, the nursery was given an award for its autism-friendly environment.

There is a full-time speech and language co-ordinator, an inclusion co-ordinator and special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO).

Walking around the nursery grounds it’s obvious all practitioners have a deep passion for childcare, with youngsters busily engaged with their carers.

The group is remarkably focused – and there are smiles everywhere. Overall, the building feels homely and welcoming.

Cheryl added, “We have high ratios of well qualified and experienced practitioners who support the children’s development.

“I believe the adults within a childcare setting are the most valuable asset, building close and caring relationships with the children.

“This means they feel valued, included and secure.”

Despite all the rave reviews, the Montessori way has attracted its sceptics in the past, who point to a lack of toys and games.

“Maria Montessori caused a lot of controversy by referring to a child’s play as ‘work’,’ said Cheryl.

“She believed that by referring to what a child did as ‘play’ meant it was frivolous and meaningless. In a Montessori it’s meaningful play, hands-on, exploring the world using well designed, natural materials to inspire and create fun.”

Montessori teachers believe the years from birth to aged six is the period in which children have the greatest capacity to learn.

A widespread study in the US has already concluded Montessori children are better prepared for reading and maths.

Aside from all the plaudits, Cheryl says the usual approach to selecting a nursery for your child should always apply.

“The best way for parents to assess a nursery’s suitability is to visit them.

“I say come and see my setting, see us in action, meet the team and get a true feel for the place.”

MONTESSORI FACTS

Dr Maria Montessori, born in 1870, was the first woman to graduate in medicine from Rome.
She started developing her educational philosophy in 1897. 
Her results were so startling she was appointed Government Inspector for Schools in Italy in 1922.
There are around 700 Montessori nurseries in the UK, most of which are independent.
The ethos is one of a calm, safe, place where children learn at their own pace.
Adults are there to observe, assess and support children’s development rather than ‘control’ their learning.