We were thrilled to read the article about Susan Isaacs ('Enquiring minds', 20 January), as a nursery school started by Dr Isaacs in 1928 with funding from an American benefactor called Natalie Davies, whose son was one of our first pupils.
Dr Isaacs' research was based not only upon Malting House School, but also Chelsea Open Air, which was apparently her research base while at what was to become the Institute of Education. Strangely, we have Nathan Isaacs's death certificate.
I have learned more about Dr Isaacs from Professor Tina Bruce, who inspired me to read more and research about Susan Isaacs and her work at Chelsea Open Air.
It has always been an honour to work in one of her schools, as I am sure others feel with McMillan, Montessori, Steiner and Froebel settings.
We need to remember the past and learn from it to ensure future quality. It is good to compare Dr Isaacs' excellent work again to much that occurs here now - particularly the importance of quality observation, children's holistic development indoors and out, following their own interests, asking questions and following their rich curious natures. Her books bring real children alive as we still endeavour to do.
Kathryn Solly, headteacher, Chelsea Open Air Nursery School, London
