Seedlings Nursery is an integral part of the Foundation Unit where a warm and welcoming atmosphere awaits your child. We are situated in the main school building and have an open plan approach allowing us to play and learn alongside reception class.

We offer a wide range of excellent resources and give the children ample opportunities to investigate and discover new things for themselves, as well as ensuring that the child’s interests are provided for through well planned activities.

The children develop good literacy and numeracy skills through a play-based approach giving them the advantage of a readiness to learn. This subsequently facilitates the transition process as children progress into Reception class.

At Seedlings we aim to accommodate you and your child’s needs for nursery provision by offering flexible and varied childcare options including lunchtimes if required. Parents can either choose a full day (8.45am to 3.15pm) or a morning (8.45am to 11.55am) or afternoon (1pm to 3.15pm).

We look forward to welcoming your child into Nursery.

Mrs Johnston

EARLY YEARS

The Early Years curriculum comprises seven areas of learning covering each Early Learning Goal (ELG). To reach a Good Level of Development (GLD), pupils must achieve at least expected levels in the prime areas and in literacy and mathematics by the end of the Reception year.

The prime areas of learning:

• communication and language     
• physical development
• personal, social and emotional development

The specific areas of learning:

• literacy
• mathematics
• understanding the world
• expressive arts and design

Characteristics of effective learning:

• playing and exploring
• active learning
• creating and thinking critically

Assessments are based primarily on observation of daily activities and events. Teachers and EYFS co-educators note in particular the learning which a pupil demonstrates spontaneously, independently and consistently in a range of contexts. Accurate assessment takes account of a range of perspectives including those of the pupil, parents and other adults who have significant interactions with the pupil.

Our learning - Spring Term

Puddles and Rainbows

Children will learn about different types of weather, how weather changes and how this affects what we wear. Children will name different types of weather and how these are more specific to the 4 seasons. They will explore materials waterproof and non-waterproof and use junk materials to create kites, sledges and boats, also experimenting with different adhesives and adapting their creations as they go. 

Build it up

In the second half of the spring term, we will focus on construction and the different materials that can be used. We will explore buildings and bridges in Appleby and discover what they are used for. The children will compare the different materials that are used for construction in our local area, for example stone and metal bridges. They will compare homes and how people live around the world focussing on the Travelling Community.

Personal, Social and Emotional Development is recognised as one of the building blocks of success in life. It supports children's development by helping them to interact effectively and develop positive attitudes to themselves and others and is crucial for children to lead healthy and happy lives. In Seedlings Nursery we support children through adult modelling and guidance. They learn to look after their bodies, manage their personal needs and learn about healthy eating by providing hands on activities, experiences and visiting our local Dental Practice. 

Physical activity is vital for children's development, enabling them to pursue a happy, healthy and active body and mind. Therefore we aim to provide your child with fun and interactive activities to develop their fine and gross motor skills throughout their early years.

Children enjoy planting seeds and caring for the plants we grow in our vegetable garden. They learn about growth, change and decay. We use our produce to cook with and make lots of delicious food.