Environment
The nursery operates within a positive, stimulating and safe environment. The emphasis is on free play and children are encouraged to choose their own activities throughout the morning.
These activities will be varied throughout the session as we adapt to the children’s developmental needs, but they normally include;
playdough/clay
sand and water play
dressing up and role play
music
games and puzzles
construction
book corner
physical play
circle time
small group time
outdoor play
Snack
The children are provided with a daily snack, which is available between 9.45 -10.30am. The children decide individually when to stop playing and come to eat and they are encouraged to make their own snack. We have daily “snack helpers”.
This system of ‘running snack’ is in accordance with the Council’s guidelines. The emphasis is on healthy food – fruit or vegetables are provided alongside a carbohydrate based item e.g. breadsticks, crackers, toast. Milk and water are available to drink.
Outdoor Play
Outdoor play in the church garden is available and encouraged most days. The activities depend to some extent on the weather.
Small Group Time
The children are divided into groups led by a designated “key worker”. The children collectively decide on their own group name. Each key worker is responsible (in conjunction with the other teachers) for assessing and evaluating the children in their group and planning appropriate activities.
Small group time talks place daily in the Upper Hall. During this time the children will be involved in a wide range of ‘focused’ activities, based on the 8 areas of the curriculum.