Nursery classes follow the Foundation curriculum which is progressive, building on the skills and knowledge that a child already has. The approach to learning is through structured play-based activities which encourage the child to learn at their own pace and ability. Play is a key way in which young children learn. It is enjoyable and challenging. Children see play as their 'work'. In Nursery, we ensure that play is purposeful and carefully planned objectives can be worked towards in a variety of learning situations which have the characteristics of play. It is important to remember that young children do not learn passively. They learn best by doing and being actively involved in their learning.

Your child has already learnt a great deal by the time they join our Nursery. These early years are the most formative and together parents and staff play a crucial part in establishing appropriate attitudes and approaches to learning in the children.

The year your child spends in Nursery is the first of two years of the Foundation Stage, which ends at the end of the Reception year, before the Key Stage One begins in Year 1.

The curriculum in the Foundation Stage is broad and balanced. We aim to ensure that social, emotional, physical, aesthetic and intellectual development are provided through a range of activities based around structured play, which is challenging and developmental for each child.

In accordance with government guidelines, the curriculum for the Foundation Stage is organised into six areas of learning.

We support, foster and develop childrens' learning in the following:

• Personal, Social and Emotional development
• Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy
• Communication, Language and Literacy
• Knowledge and Understanding of the World
• Physical Development
• Creative Development