Facilities

The modern premises are spacious, airy and light.  Inside there are three classrooms equipped to a particularly high standard.  The internal layout has been arranged for easy accessibility and maximum creative space.  The larger room offers activities with water, sand, paint, clay and other messy play which is so important to a child’s development.  It also houses large construction, small world toys and a home corner.  The smaller classroom is used for pre-reading, writing and practical mathematics activities.  It also contains a computer, equipment for sorting and problem solving, and many games.  The upstairs classroom is an area where activities are planned specifically for the 3-5 year age group.  It is an ideal space for drama, dance and role play.

 

Outside

There is a specially created, safe, all-weather outdoor play area, with a wide range of resources allowing imaginative and physical play opportunities.  Our rabbit also lives in the garden and is free to run around the area; he is happy to be stroked by the children.

 

Daily Programme

The Kindergarten offers a broad and balanced timetable which takes into account individual needs.  Each child is presented with varied experiences and opportunities to explore their environment using a wide range of materials  or equipment.  Through exploration and play we cater for the child’s social, emotional and educational development which will form a foundation for further learning.

The Kindergarten places particular emphasis on music as a form of enjoyment and multi-skill development.  We have daily music sessions, and a dance teacher visits weekly.  Stories from all cultures play a central part in the children’s learning.

Short trips to local places of interest are organised - for example Christchurch Park and Ipswich Museum.  If you do not wish your child to be included this can be indicated on the registration form.

 

Topics and Themes

Many of our daily activities are arranged around topics and themes.  Some recent examples include:

size                                      seaside and holidays                 fruits           
dinosaurs                              favourite stories                       Africa
space and the planets             minibeasts                              autumn

 

Meal Times

A hot meal is served at lunch time.  Afternoon tea is provided for those staying for the entire afternoon.  Snacks of milk or fruit juice, fruit or biscuits are also provided at mid-session. 

Mealtimes are an ideal time during the day when children’s social skills can be developed, and are often celebrated along with special events such as birthdays.

 

 

Sports Day
 

 

A sports day is arranged each July, greatly enjoyed by children and parents  alike.

December is a busy time at the nursery when all the children take part in the nativity.  They also go "on tour" with a performance at the Anglesea Heights  nursing home, always eagerly anticipated by staff and residents.