In 1982 Wendy Compson took the courageous leap into starting a nursery in her own home. This decision was initially made out need as there were no local suitable facilities. The nursery grew in popularity out growing her own house and after convincing the bank to lend her the money the Pink house (now known as the White House) was purchased and converted into a nursery and pre prep from 2.5 to 5 years.

Wendy Compson’s passion for the Montessori Method lead her to become authorised by the London Montessori Centre and a Suffolk training Centre was created. This enabled her to train staff for her growing school and Nursery.

Little Acorns Celebrate 10 years -2006. Here we see Y6 students posing with babies from the baby unit. They themselves joined Cherry Tress as babies. A testament to the enduring success and dedication of Wendy and her team.

 

Wendy has a wonderful archive of newsletters from the 1990’s through the 2000’s showing the adventures of the school and nursery. A high note must be the recognition of her achievements by being awarded the Montessorian of the year 2008. During Dr Martin Bradley speech at the Montessori National workshop he said.

“by involving the children and carrying them on her wave of enthusiasm Wendy has given them ownership. By giving the children this strength she has also been guided and lead by them which reflects what a true Montessorian is, and why Wendy should become Montessorian of the year”

 

Natalie Taylor the Principal at Brookes herself a great believer in the Montessori approach recently invited Wendy back into the fold to help train and reinforce the values she holds so dear. Wendy’s energy and enthusiasm defies her age and is totally contagious!

                  

The enrichment of extra-curricular activities was certainly diverse from helping to look after a pig to staging a production at the Theatre Royal!