Camden New Journal - by SARA NEWMAN Published: 14 February 2008
Mary Christodoulou with colleagues, friends, family and children at the Coram’s Fields nursery
End of an era as Mary leaves nursery
SHE has been teaching toddlers their ABC at London’s oldest nursery since it first opened as a free nursery.
At her retirement party, under-fives
co-ordinator Mary Christodoulou, 59, received warm tributes from colleagues at Coram’s Fields nursery in Guildford Street.
Nursery manager Carole Perry, 51, described Ms Christodoulou as a personal mentor and guidance counsellor and an inspiration to all those that have worked with her.
Ms Perry said: “She has worked tirelessly to make sure that we reach as many families as we possibly can. “She has found access to grants from places that we wouldn’t normally have got money from – not huge amounts but little pockets of money. “Children still come back to see her and they’re grown up now.”
Ms Christodoulou is looking forward to travelling and spending time with her family. She said: “I will miss everybody here. It’s been a big part of my life for 21 years but I’m sure they’ll find someone to replace me.”