Nursery

Class teacher:  Miss H Sandford & Mrs V Bessey

Support staff: Mrs M Russon & Mrs Gunn

Welcome to Nursery!

Our nursery is centered around providing a vibrant, dynamic environment where young children can explore, learn, and grow. At this early stage of development, high importance is placed on nurturing key areas such as communication and language, physical skills, and personal, social, and emotional development (PSED). All of these essential skills are developed through play, which serves as the primary mode of learning in the nursery setting.

1. Communication and Language: Play is an excellent vehicle for fostering language development in young children. In the nursery, children are encouraged to engage in both individual and group play, where they interact with peers and adults. Through activities like storytelling, role play, and singing, children expand their vocabulary, practice speaking, and learn to listen attentively. Whether it’s building with blocks, playing house, or taking part in a class discussion, children’s language skills grow through meaningful, real-life interactions. Play helps them understand how to express themselves, ask questions, and understand others.
   
   

2. Physical Development: Play is also essential for physical development. Nursery classrooms offer opportunities for both gross motor and fine motor skill development. Children engage in activities like running, jumping, climbing, and dancing to improve strength, coordination, and balance. Fine motor skills are honed through tasks such as drawing, building with small blocks, and handling scissors or playdough. All of these activities are integrated into play-based learning, allowing children to strengthen their muscles and dexterity while having fun in an engaging environment.
   
   

3. Personal, Social, and Emotional Development (PSED): Play provides a natural context for children to develop emotional intelligence and social skills. In the nursery, children learn to navigate relationships, manage their feelings, and understand the perspectives of others. Through cooperative play, they learn to share, take turns, and work as part of a team. They are also guided in recognizing and expressing their emotions, gaining the ability to cope with challenges like frustration or disappointment. Group games, role-playing scenarios, and collaborative projects foster a sense of belonging and help children build confidence in their social interactions.
   
   

In nursery, play is not just fun; it’s the core of the learning experience. It offers an environment that feels both safe and exciting, where children’s curiosity and natural creativity can flourish. By learning through play, children develop essential skills in a way that feels enjoyable and meaningful. This play-based approach ensures that every child builds the foundation for future learning and social success, equipping them with the skills they need for lifelong growth and independence.