The mere thought of children being in control of their nursery environment is enough to make some childcarers shudder with horror. It's easy to conjure up a chaotic image of splattered paint, dishevelled dolls, spilt drinks and unruly youngsters. But a totally different picture is found at one Derby school.
Children attending the 40-place Ashgate Nursery School prove that it is possible for three- to five-year-olds to organise their own learning successfully. Yes, there is some mess, but only amid an atmosphere of industrious activity. Surrounded by intrepid dinosaur exploration, puppet making, bicycle riding and computer play, headteacher Sharron Colton explains that it is important to encourage children's desire to learn by allowing them to investigate and follow their instincts.
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