Hampstead and Highgate Express
11 March 2005
A PRIMROSE Hill nursery where tots discuss their dreams and learn
yogic principles has been given full marks by education watchdogs.
Ofsted inspectors have vindicated the unorthodox methods at St Mark's
Square nursery school, saying it is a "good" school with
a "positive impact on the children's overall development".
The 50-pupil nursery in the crypt of St Mark's Church - a favourite
among celebrity parents - encourages its two to six-year-olds to take
part in animal yoga and meditation where they take a stroll around
the garden repeating the week's word of wisdom.
Nursery founder Sheema Parsons, who says its holistic ethos is a
mix of philosophy and yogic beliefs, concentrates on the whole child.
She said: "I want children to grow up into respectful, tolerant
human beings, who look after the planet and society. I want them to
read and write but if they are fundamentally decent people, I have
really achieved something.
The school where singer Suggs from Madness, rocket Noel Gallagher,
photographer David Bailey and restaurateur Jeremy King have sent their
youngsters, also teaches pupils violin, ballet and French and encourages
them to express themselves through art.
Chris McMinn who has two children at the school, loved St Mark's
so much, he started as a part-time administrator in January.
The 41-year-old said: "Friends of ours had children at the school
and before 1 knew anything about it, 1 did think they were friendly
and self confident but without being precocious.
"They don't talk down to the children here - they talk up to
them. It's a stimulating environment and I want my children to enjoy
learning.
Sinead Hennessy was appointed deputy head teacher in September. The
30-year-old Irishwoman has been teaching in nursery schools for 10
years, and this is the first where she meditates for 20 minutes before
the children arrive and again after they leave.
She said: "The meditation really clears your mind and also calms
you down at the end of the day.
"St Mark's is like a breath of fresh air. We do a principle
a week. We explain it and then talk about everyday examples to help
them understand it. What the children feed back is really amazing."
The school also works on Montessori principles, a structured type
of nursery teaching, and everything is learned through play.
Ms Parsons added: "It's not easy to run this school and we are
always on the lookout for good teachers.
I could have got bigger, become a chain, but I have my values. I'm
driving a battered up old mini but I have got richer on the inside."
