Choosing our Early Years
Choosing the right Early Years setting can be a stressful experience. There is a lot to think about and many options available. There are some helpful criteria to consider when reviewing potential nurseries, pre-schools or Early Years settings, some that you may not even be aware of.
Children develop quickly in the Early Years and their experiences up to age 5 have a major impact on their future life and education.
Specialist staff who know your child
Our Early Years team includes trained, qualified staff who understand child development and how young children learn best. We recruit carefully and we train staff so routines stay consistent and expectations stay clear. You will see staff who listen to children, notice small changes, and respond calmly when children feel upset or unsettled.
Your child will have familiar adults who get to know their interests and needs. Staff use this knowledge to provide opportunities that support, stretch, and challenge at the right time, so your child keeps moving forward without feeling pushed.
A curriculum that builds confidence and school readiness
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage and we plan learning that builds strong foundations in language, early reading, early number, and personal development. Children have fun and enjoy learning through play, stories, talk, outdoor time, and short focused group activities.
We teach children to listen to others and share their ideas. We set clear routines and we reinforce kindness, helpfulness, sharing, courtesy, and respect. These habits help children form friendships and feel part of the group.
Enrichment and wider experiences
We enrich the seven areas of learning with specialist sessions and broader experiences. Children take part in activities that develop creativity, movement, and confidence, including Music and Physical Education. We also plan assemblies, performances, trips, and outings when children are ready. Reception children also receive French and Computing lessons.
Children also learn in our outdoor areas through planned sessions that support curiosity, teamwork, and a growing understanding of the world.
Health & Safety
Like all good childcare settings, the safety of our children, staff and visitors is vitally important. Our school has its own designated Health and Safety lead, who regularly meets with the Group Health and Safety Manager. There are regular site walks to ensure the safety and upkeep of the premise and regular fire drills. The Oak-Tree cleaning staff thoroughly clean the setting every day, and carry out deep cleans during the holidays. Our policies are all available to download from the school website.
