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21
Once again the attendances made at Parkshot Day Nursery
attained a record height. This is a sure indication of the low
incidence of infectious diseases amongst the children. There were,
in fact, no important outbreaks and fortunately no case of
poliomyelitis occurred.
It was with considerable regret that arrangements were finally
completed and Grey Court Day Nursery was handed over to the
Education Authority on the 31st March. This Nursery was first
opened in 1943 in response to a demand by the local residents. It
was most efficiently managed by the Matron, Mrs. Marshall, who
had the knack of gathering and retaining a happy and efficient staff.
The children themselves gained much. Spending their days in the
atmosphere of a pleasant country house with spacious grounds they
rapidly put on weight and gained confidence. When they reached
the age of five and were transferred to school the teachers invariably
noticed how much easier Grey Court children were to handle than
those who came straight from home. A few "problem" children
were admitted to the Nursery and in every instance progressive
improvement was made and school life was commenced at age five
without difficulty.
It was unfortunate that there were not sufficient local children
in the particular age groups to keep the nursery full. Every day
twenty or more childern were transported from Richmond. This
was very expensive and there was the constant fear that the vehicle
filled with these very young children might be involved in a road
accident.
I am pleased to say that the use of the premises has not been
lost to the local inhabitants. Grey Court is now a successful Nursery
School and it is only children under two years of age who cannot
gain admission.
The Maternity and Child Welfare Committee expressed their sorrow
at having to terminate Mrs. Marshall's appointment but the Council
will be pleased to learn that she has since been appointed to a Day
Nursery situated in the Borough of Barnes,