Nursery
At Handcross children begin their Nursery life when they are about 2 years of age.
Fledglings
Children start in the Nursery in the term after their second birthday They attend a minimum of two sessions a week, up to a maximum of five. Here we maintain a Staff:Pupil ratio of 1:4.
Wise Owls
The September after their third birthday the children attend a minimum of five sessions each week. These can be taken every morning or as a combination of mornings and full days (with a packed lunch). The Staff:Pupil ratio here is 1:8.
Session Times
- Mornings
- 8:45am – 12:00pm (or 1:00pm)
- Afternoons
- 12:30- 3:25pm
Curriculum
We follow the National Foundation Stage Curriculum, which provides six areas of learning:
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Communication, Language and Literacy
- Mathematical Development
- Knowledge and Understanding of the World
- Physical Development
- Creative Development
We recognise that children develop at different rates and that their progress is not necessarily age related. The Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage also recognises this. Therefore, each of the six areas of learning lists stepping stones of development.
Early Learning
Our major objective is to provide a comfortable, secure and stimulating environment in which each child can begin education away from home, feeling valued and happy.
We plan activities and experiences which help children to understand that people have different needs, views, cultures and beliefs.
We develop your child’s awareness of the world around by encouraging their enquiring minds. Providing an environment where children feel secure enough to investigate and try things out for themselves.
With your help and our support, together we guide them through the Early Years onto the next crucial stage of their development.
Transition to the Next Stage
We recognise the importance of preparing children for their continuing journey through the school and offer many opportunities to join in with the Pre-Prep. Once a week Wise Owls attend assembly with them and there are various other activities which help the children to integrate.