Nursery

Our purpose built Nursery, known as the Lambs, is located in our Pre-Prep department. It is staffed by a full time teacher and two nursery nurses. Boys enter the Lambs in the September after their 3rd birthday. We offer 5 full days to boys born between September and April. However, boys whose birthdays fall between May and August are offered mornings only during the Autumn term.

The Staff plan a structured but flexible programme of play and work activities which encompasses the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. The EYFS framework is divided up into six areas of learning:

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

Throughout the day boys may be taught individually, in small groups or as a whole class. Pre-reading and number skills are introduced and reinforced throughout the year. Jolly Phonics is used to teach letter sounds. Specialist teachers are used for both Music and French.

Particular attention is paid to developing the boys' personal, social and emotional skills. Good manners, being kind and sharing are encouraged from day one. Boys learn by example and through activities such as Circle Time.

The main classroom opens out onto a covered soft floor playground which allows for outside learning. The Nursery has full access to the school grounds including the forest area, nature reserve, beehives and pond areas. The Nursery is well resourced and benefits from a range of large and small equipment which enable the boys to gain confidence and enjoyment whilst learning through play.

Boys are offered a mid morning snack of fresh fruit and the choice of milk or water. Nursery boys bring a packed lunch which is eaten in the Nursery rather than the dining room. Polite table manners are both encouraged and expected.

Communication with parents is vital for continued progress. Parent consultation meetings take place three times a year and a written report is produced at the end of each term. Teachers are always available to see parents at the beginning and end of the school day.

Pattern of the day

The Nursery day starts between 8.30 and 9.00 a.m. The morning session is divided by a break at 10.25 a.m. when the boys are able to play outside and are given fruit and a drink. At 12.00 p.m. the boys have a packed lunch and the afternoon session starts again at 1.30 p.m. The boys go home at 2.50 p.m. There is a late room facility for boys who have brothers in the main school. There is an option of breakfast and after school care if required.