The Nursery

‘Learning through play’

Our nursery is open throughout the year from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. and has a lovely 'home from home' atmosphere where our youngest children can feel happy and secure and open to the world of learning.

For many children the nursery is their first real encounter with another establishment outside the familiar boundaries of home. Smallwood nursery therefore intentionally has a very open approach to children and parents to secure this homely feel.

Learning through play is our teaching philosophy. Activities are carefully planned, guided by the Foundation Stage Curriculum, to stimulate the children's imaginations and develop their enquiring minds. When the child is ready sounds of the Letterland Characters are introduced along with Number Zoo. Montessori activities are also widely used throughout the nursery years. The children begin our reading scheme when they are ready, in preparation for the move up into our Reception Class. The play areas and extensive grounds surrounding the Manor enhance the children's learning opportunities, providing wonderful opportunities to explore. The nursery also benefits from the Main Prep facilities of the gym, the chapel and the dining room.

Our excellent team of qualified nursery staff ensure that Smallwood nursery is second to none in providing the best start for our children. Government sponsored nursery vouchers are available for our nursery setting and we undergo the regular statutory inspections by OFSTED. Most children go on to full time education at Smallwood, although the nursery has a certain number of places each year for children who do not.

Being at Smallwood is all about educating the whole child. This begins in the nursery where everything is focused so that each child feels welcomed and valued.

Download Form of Application for Admission - Nursery Only (pdf 200k)

Click Here to go back