Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Boys are encouraged to develop their personal social skills when playing with each other, learning how to share and take turns. Independence is encouraged in many ways, from choosing an activity to changing shoes for gym.
An introduction to Christianity begins with the boys following a specialist scheme, and through this and other activities they are encouraged to fulfil their potential and to respect each other's needs and beliefs. The boys attend the Junior assembly once a week and perform their own assembly to the Junior School in the summer term
Stories, role-play and discussion encourage the boys to explore and begin to understand their, and their friends' emotions.
Communication, Language and Literacy
Communication, language and literacy development takes place throughout the Nursery in every activity. The boys are encouraged to develop competence in speaking, listening and story telling to encourage good pre-reading skills. They have access to, and are regularly read to from, a wide variety of books. The Jolly Phonics scheme, along with various phonic activities, is used to master letter sounds. Construction toys, play-dough, cutting, sticking and colouring activities help develop the boys pencil skills.
Mathematical Development
Early Maths skills are taught through songs, stories, craftwork and specific targeted activities. The boys will be introduced to quantity, numbers, shape and patterns.
Knowledge and Understanding of the World
The boys are encouraged to develop an understanding of history and geography. Regular walks around the school and its grounds allow the boys to learn about the seasons and their local environment. Technology is approached through organised craft activities, role-play and the regular use of the classroom computer. Early science skills are encouraged through a specific early years scheme. Boys are encouraged to bring in items from home such as photos and holiday memorabilia, to help relate and share these experiences with the other members of the Nursery.
Physical Development
Physical development takes place throughout the Nursery and main school. The boys have access to their own purpose built play adventure playground and a paved area equipped with tricycles, construction toys and sandpits. There are regular opportunities to use the school gym and sports hall and to explore the school grounds.
The Nursery Department holds its own sports day in the summer term.
Creative Development
The boys are encouraged to develop their own creativity throughout their time in the Nursery. They are encouraged to explore the use of paint and other media. The easel is always at their disposal and various assortments of paper, card, glue, scissors, play dough and collage material are also freely available. Organised art lessons, linked to projects and wall displays, show the boys different ways of using the materials on offer.
Role-play, school performances at Christmas and in the summer term and an assembly performed to the junior school develop their abilities in self-expression and personal confidence.
The boys have two sessions a week with a specialist music teacher and her work is followed up in the classroom.
