Christie Valeriano

Review of Iverna Gardens Montessori Nurs...

We've had all 3 of our children at Iverna Gardens,...

We've had all 3 of our children at Iverna Gardens, and couldn't ask for a more magical experience for them. We had been living in Kensington for some time when our eldest was due for nursery, and were looking for a neighborhood nursery. IG was recommended by a fellow mum in our building, whose 4 children had all attended IG. When our eldest attended, IG was populated with like minded parents who were committed to an excellent early years education for their children. My children's key workers knew and loved each of my children and prepared detailed reports each term. They noticed my children's interests and gave me tips for how I could continue to stimulate curiosity at home. Happily, IG combines independent learning with structured 'circle time,' so my children were encouraged to eat when they were hungry, to play messily and vigorously , and to explore, investigate and ask questions about the world around them. Supporting the current research on the benefits of 'messy play' in early years development, my children were encouraged to get messy during the school day. However, the school always had a spare set of clothing for them, and they were never left wet or dirty during the school day. As a mum living in Central London, I was grateful they could experience a bit of the childhood I enjoyed, where I was allowed to get messy and play with freedom and joy.

Two of my three have now matriculated to academically selective primary schools in Central London and my youngest has taken a place to begin reception this coming September. They all performed well in their assessments and have now transitioned easily into a structured classroom environment. In fact, my children's primary school teachers have commented on their curiosity, attentiveness to learning and their ability to articulate concepts verbally and to get along with their peers. The hands on phonics and maths and fine motor preparation they received at IG prepared them well for the reading, writing and maths work at their primary schools, and more importantly, they exhibit curiosity about what they are reading and a desire to read more.

Iverna Gardens is a place for parents who want an excellent experience for their children and who understand the importance of independent, child led learning at a neighborhood establishment. Though IG has an Outstanding rating and a pristine Tatler review, if this is your sole interest in a nursery, you most likely will miss out on the true magic of the place. If, however, you're interested in a loving, nurturing place which will prepare your child with the building blocks to succeed in life, you will find a happy home at IG. And you don't have to be in Kensington very long to know this is the 'word on the street' about this beautiful nursery.