We aim to motivate, inspire, and challenge children in their learning, and create a space where exploration and creativity are at the core of what we do. We know that children learn best when their play is supported by adults, allowing the development of collaboration and communication skills. Our ethos is built on the importance of play, some of which is child-led, some of which is adult-led- where play is supported and extended by adults, and lastly play which has specific educational outcomes.  This is addressed in our Henry Allen Curriculum.

We have created a curriculum that is ambitious and is carefully sequenced to build children's learning over time. We have clear outcomes in mind for children's development and learning.  Our children benefit from a balanced curriculum that's been planned ahead and also makes time for spontaneous learning.  

Encompassing our curriculum is our wheel of opportunities which supports the benefits of first-hand experiences and moments that can be built on back at nursery.  Activities such as forest school, local walks, and visits stimulate vivid and rich conversations.  Activities such as food preparation, cookery, gardening, and tidying-up are key to developing personal social and emotional skills,  encouraging independent and self-motivated learners.

We believe that when a child has the freedom to explore the world around them and share memorable experiences with their peers and highly trained practitioners, learning becomes joyful and long-lasting.

OFSTED January 2023

"Leaders have constructed an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum across all seven areas of early learning. They use their considerable expertise to plan activities that build and connect children’s knowledge in small steps. Staff follow children’s interests when choosing activities that will help them to learn." OFSTED Inspection Report January 31st 2023

Core experiences are evidenced in the above wheel, which highlights our opportunities for exploration, awe and wonder.  We build on children’s existing experiences and offer them new ways to increase their knowledge, understanding and skills.  We observe the children’s own interests and explore topics that they are interested in, which is woven into the weekly planning.  Weekly forest school enables children to explore the world around them, and see and understand changes that occur in our environment.

We believe in equal opportunities, celebrating the diverse background cultures of our children and encouraging them to share these within the setting. Regular visits within the local area, and opportunities to invite visitors into our setting, further enhance children’s learning experiences.