McMillian sisters

Rachel and Margret McMillan were two sisters who were born in the 1860's . Margaret became deaf at the age of 14 as a result of having Scarlet Fever. They lived in the USA for 3 years but moved to Scotland when their Father moved away. When they became older both sisters moved to London.

- The school opened at 7.30 am

- Most children were dropped off between 8.00 am and 9.00 am by their mothers on their way to work in the factories

- Breakfast was porridge and milk at 9.00 am

- The mornings were spent doing hand work or playing in the garden

- Lunch was 11.30 am and 12 pm

- The afternoon activities consisted of free play, music and games

- Tea at 4.00 pm

- Collection of the children between 5.00 and 5.30 pm

When they moved to London the sisters attended socialist meetings and gradually became social reformers. in 1914 they opened up the open air nursery school. Their theory was they believed children learn by exploring and would achieve their full potential trough first hand experience and learning. They believed that about the importance of free play, particularly with craft and water activity's and also outdoor play.