A caring and nurturing approach from our highly qualified staff, ensures that each child thrives and develops a real joy of learning. Structured play and activities provide the foundation for reading, writing and number work. Creative skills are nurtured and encouraged through painting, role-play and musical activity.
In addition to spending time in our light, airy, purpose-built classroom, the children are given time to put different skills to use in our linked Early Years' Courtyard and by exploring the multitude of outdoor learning spaces we have here at St Margaret's.
Hatchlings (Lower Nursery):
For our youngest children, or 'Hatchlings', we provide a safe haven for them to explore and develop within the Bluebird Nursery setting. They enjoy Forest School, games and music which are all taught by our enthusiastic Early Years staff. There is a separate play and sleep area, but the children are also encouraged to integrate and form friendships with the older children within the Nursery. To help with socialisation and settling, we recommend 4 sessions per week which can be booked as full or half days.
Chicks (Middle Nursery) and Fledglings (Upper Nursery):
The term after our 'Hatchlings' turn 3, we welcome them into our 'Chicks' group. Alongside our 'Fledglings' - those children who are in their pre-school year prior to entering Reception- they enjoy lessons delivered by our subject specialists which are timetabled each morning. Children can enjoy Swimming, Music, Games, Computing, French and Forest School.
Our children in Nursery are very much part of the school, so they also have the opportunity to explore the school grounds and spend time with the older children. They have access to the wider school facilities including the library, play equipment, 25m indoor swimming pool and acres of playing fields.
An organised timetable of enrichment activities means that our 'Hatchlings' and 'Fledglings' can take advantage of whole school events such as theatre company visits, Pre-Prep sports day, Book Week and the Christmas Nativity.
Early Years' Courtyard:
Our newly developed courtyard is a welcome addition to our Early Years Department. It is a bright, fun and lively outdoor space which stimulates our pupils' imaginations and encourages harmonious play within a happy, exciting and safe environment.
Research shows that play is one of the most important ways in which young children learn and gain essential knowledge and skills, and this is at the core of a St Margaret’s education. The courtyard has been designed with exactly this sense of purpose and possiblity in mind. There are a variety of excting and innovative features to stimulate our youngest pupils including water play basins, a role play shop, the play lodge, a storyteller chair, the sandpit and a tipi. Children love sensory play and our courtyard provides endless hours of fun and exploration.
See our Early Years' Courtyard in action: