Nursery

We follow the areas of learning from the Early Years Foundation Stage and facilitate experiences to support children to reach their individual learning potential. Learning is based around topics and themes such as “People Who Help Us”. The children are encouraged to be independent in investigating and initiating activities. During their time in the Owlets Nursery children develop friendships with their peers and older children across the school. They are supported to grow in character through their interactions with peers and familiar adults by exploring emotions, learning to share, cooperate with others and persevere when learning a new skill. Our dedicated team of staff ensures that each child thrives academically and socially.

Nursery staff introduce phonics, listening and storytelling activities. We follow the Read, Write Inc. phonics scheme in Owlets, and moving into Reception. Children learn ‘pure’ letter sounds and begin blending activities. The staff provide opportunities to explore mark making as a foundation for writing.

Maths activities are practically based using a range of resources to promote understanding of counting, shapes, pattern and size. As children prepare to transition into our Reception class, they are invited to visit the classroom and get to know the staff, they can discover the resources and meet the other children in their group. Staff discuss this process by sharing relevant books and discussing the move during group and circle times. The Early Years staff may also liaise with colleagues from other settings to support the transfer to Reception.

Being a part of the wider Windlesham community enables the Owlets children to benefit from our excellent school facilities such as the library and have weekly lessons with specialist teachers including our Music and French staff.  The Owlets enjoy interacting with visitors such as dentists, authors on World Book Day and experts for Maths Day. They also participate in trips to the theatre, forest, farm and museums.

The Owlets staff share observations with families to track each child’s development and ensure children develop skills for school readiness. Daily face-to-face communication at drop-off and pick-up is complemented by communication with families through our website, newsletter, social media platforms and emails. There are opportunities throughout the year when parents and carers are invited to join us to share in their child’s learning which strengthens bonds between families, children and the Owlets staff.