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Nursery curriculum

Our nursery class, Red Class, is always busy, and whatever the children are doing, they are learning. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, built around the belief that every child deserves the best possible start in life, with the support to reach their full potential.

In practice, that means a curriculum led by play and discovery. Across a typical week the children take part in story time, singing, mark-making, early number activities, creative play and plenty of time outdoors in our garden. Each activity is designed to develop the whole child: their communication and language, their physical confidence, and their personal, social and emotional development.

Our experienced early years staff know that children this age learn best when they feel safe, happy and curious. They observe each child closely and gently shape activities around their interests, so learning always feels like play. This careful, individual attention is what sets our nursery in Richmond apart and gives every child a confident foundation for Reception and beyond.

We follow the Early Years Statutory Framework and its core principles:

“Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Children develop quickly in the early years and a child’s experiences between birth and age five have a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its own right. Good parenting and high quality early learning together provide the foundation children need to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up.”

Statutory Framework for the EYFS

Play

Through play, our children explore and develop learning experiences, which help them make sense of the world. They practise and build up ideas and learn how to control themselves and understand the need for rules. Children have the opportunity to think creatively alongside other children as well as on their own. They communicate with others as they investigate and solve problems and can express fears or relive anxious experiences in controlled and safe situations.

Active learning

Active learning occurs when children are motivated and interested. We encourage children to be independent and to take control over their learning by planning a balance of structured and self-initiated activities, providing appropriate resources and facilitating independent learning through questioning and scaffolding. As children develop their confidence they learn to make decisions and feel a sense of satisfaction as they take ownership of their learning.

Children love to play in the classroom and outside in the garden – construction toys, imaginative play, mark making, dressing up and messy, sensory play, even woodwork! Their teachers also lead some exciting sessions for them to learn together in different ways – singing, listening to stories, developing writing skills, learning phonics and numbers and playing games.

Days are always fun in Red Class, with the children being prepared for school – and life!

Forest School

Children are given the opportunity to explore and play outside in natural settings, learning about the environment and developing a connection to nature. This type of education encourages physical activity, creativity, and problem-solving skills, as well as fostering a love and appreciation for the natural world.