One of the reasons parents choose Whitton Day Nursery for their children is for our educational programme. We work towards the ‘Early Learning Goals’ which provide targets for children to attain by the time they finish their ‘Reception Class’ at school. As can be seen from our excellent OFSTED reports, we are achieving these targets and more. Many children leaving the nursery for school have a much higher than average reading age and are confident and happy in their learning.

Younger children are provided with activities which are relevant to the ‘Birth to Three Matters’ framework, soon to become the ‘Birth to Five Matters’ framework.

Our pre-school curriculum covers topics including mathematics (number, shape, size, time, weight and related subjects), language & literacy (emergent writing, reading, speaking and listening), knowledge and understanding of the world (history, geography, technology, science and nature), Physical development (toddler gym, music and movement, gross and fine motor control), Personal and social development (cultural and religious awareness, self-confidence and self-esteem) and creative development (art & craft, music, drama, games). Most of the curriculum is taught through play activities with special events and topic work where appropriate.

We often explore ‘The World Wide Web’ looking at sites which include The Tweenies, Teletubbies, Dinosaurs and African Wildlife, among others.  We have 2 computers dedicated fully for use by our children.

The children are taught ‘Makaton’ sign language, mainly through songs and games.

In order to help children to reach their full potential we use nationally recognised resources in our teaching. These include:

*  Letterland - alphabet learning resources  *

*  Finger Phonics – a phonetic pre-reading scheme  *

*  Ginn 360 Reading Scheme - up to level 2  *

*  Ten Town – number resources similar to Letterland  *

In addition we offer the children the unique opportunity to become automatic members of two children’s clubs, free of charge. These are:

            *   En-Route French Club (from approx. 3 ½ years of age)  *

*  Mini-Maestro’s Music Club (from 2 years of age)  *

        *   Funfit Sessions are an integral part of the curriculum, with two members of staff qualified as British Gymnastics Association Under 5’s gym coaches  *

The children are taken on regular outings to enhance their learning. Whether it is to the local library, park or place of interest or further afield, the children benefit immensely from these visits. At other times we might invite visitors to nursery to demonstrate their skills. Parents and relatives contributions are especially valued!

Each child’s progress is monitored on a continuous basis. Educational progress and activities can also be checked by looking at any ‘workbooks’ or folders and their book of memories, which are kept in the children’s home trays.  Also placed in the tray is a book of memories which includes photographs of the children taken during activities and special events.

A Topic Web is posted during term-time on the parent’s notice board giving details of projects taking place over the coming weeks, which parents can follow at home.