School Feature: Sarah’s Nest, Gbagada
LagosMums interviews Mrs Oluwatoyin Sarah Adeniran, the head of school Sarah’s Nest . She discusses the school curriculum, ethos and more.
Please introduce yourself and your background?
My name is Mrs Oluwatoyin Sarah Adeniran. With strong competencies in Financial Analysis, Strategy Development and Process Improvement, i am an Economics graduate from Olabisi Onabanjo University. A First Prize winner of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). In 2005, i obtained my certification as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.
I am a scholar and ardent believer in the teachings of Maria Montessori, i possess an International Diploma in Montessori Methods of Education and i am the promoter and Co-Founder of Sarah’s Nest- an au courant crèche and pre-school that specializes in Child Care services in line with global standards. I am married with two children.
What is the name of the School and when was it founded?
Sarah’s Nest was founded in August 2011 but opened officially in January 2012, which was the beginning of term 2 of that school year. The promoters took a deliberate action to overlook the market place opportunities which usually comes with the September back to school rush and spend that time crafting strategies and training all pioneer staff.
Where is the school located?
Sarah’s Nest is located in Gbagada Phase 2. A serene closed community resided by Middle and Upper Middle class Nigerians.
Please give details of your staff/administration?
The School has a total Staff Strength of 20, which includes the Head of School, Teachers and Minders, Administrative and other Support Staff.
Ratio of kids to teachers?
The globally accepted standards differ for each age group, the standards for the crèche is 1 to 3 and the toddlers, 1-6. We make conscious efforts to keep to this.
Number of children in the school and the capacity?
The School has capacity to accommodate about 70 children and our enrollment ratio is satisfactory
What age range are your students? And classes?
Our Creche (The Hatchlings class) admits children from 3 months old who then progress to the Nestlings class at 18 months. The Nestlings Children progress to the Fledglings class at 3years old from where they graduate to Primary School at age 5. It is worthy to mention that we do not presently run Primary Education but have a feeder school arrangement with Temple School Ilupeju.
What is the curriculum/teaching methodology?
We started out teaching only Montessori Methods but recently, we added the British Curriculum
Extra-curricular activities available? School Hours and any after school services offered?
We encourage the children to engage in extra curricular activities and we have a variety for parents to choose from. School opens at 8am and closes at 1.30pm with after school services running to 4pm and 6pm for extended hours.
What is the admission process? Deadline? Is it rolling?
We have no deadlines for Admission. If the space is available a child can be admitted during the term
Tuition? Is there a payment plan for parents?
We presently do not have a payment plan for parents.
How do you assess students’ progress? The children’s inherent love of learning is encouraged by giving them opportunities to engage in spontaneous, meaningful activities under the guidance of our trained Class Directresses. Through their work, the children develop concentration, motivation, persistence, and discipline.
Discipline methods? All children are different and therefore learn in their own unique way.
Do you offer a school bus service? Yes we do
Any other information you would like to share?
Sarah’s Nest aims to promote early child development with deep consciousness on the spirituality and individual abilities inherent in every child.
What should parents be looking for to decide if your school would work for them/their children?
Our focus is on being one of the safest and most conducive destinations for the learning and development of our children. It is a mantra, which we are very committed to and it permeates through the line to every individual in the organisation. We are just 4 years old and this year records the graduation of our first set to Primary School. Our Children recently took the Temple School entrance examination and every single one of them passed with flying colours.
How is your school preparing children for learning and operating in the 21st century?
By exposing the children early to smart learning tools and technology. Each child in the Fledglings class spends at least one hour per week using the computer and other ICT tools.
How do we contact you for more information? Or to schedule a visit to the school?
The School can be contacted on the phone numbers, 08034043280 and 07090682424 or by email: [email protected].
