Personal, Social and Emotional Development – The support and education we provide is aimed at leading each child towards independence so our activities
are designed to give children as much control over their environment as possible.  The children then develop the self-confidence, self discipline and self-esteem to explore their educational environment and gain maximum benefit from it.  We provide children with experiences and support that will help them develop a positive sense of others, respect for others, social skills and a positive disposition to learn.

Communication, Language and Literacy – Communication and language are encouraged by the use of rhymes, songs, books, CDs, computer activities and group discussions.  At circle time, we encourage discussions and children learn the art of conversation: how to take turns, to listen carefully and give opinions
on subjects. 
The Montessori approach to literacy uses a phonics method.  Writing is developed using metal inserts in geometric designs, refining pencil control and letter formation.  We offer a wide range of books to the children, and story-time, with linked activities, forms an important part of the day. 
We introduce children informally to French at 2 years of age, since it is widely accepted that a second language is more easily absorbed while a child is
mastering their native language.

Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy – Since Dr Maria Montessori was a scientist with a strong mathematical interest, most of the Montessori
equipment has some mathematical properties such as grading, comparing, sorting and finding order.  There is also equipment specifically designed for mathematical development, such as boxes of wooden spindles for early counting.  These exercises are supplemented by using counting rhymes and other number-themed activities.

Knowledge and Understanding of the World – The Montessori curriculum contains a section dedicated to cultural activities that give the children experience of
the world around them, such as in nature, science, geography and multi-cultural issues.  Through growing fruit and vegetables in our garden children gain an understanding of lifecycles and where our food comes from.  We have outings to nearby nature walks, parks, ponds, farms and other places of interest, which enrich the children's education about the world we live in. 

Physical Development – The physical development of babies and young children is encouraged by giving them the opportunity to be active and interactive in
order to improve their skills of coordination, control manipulation and movement.  They are supported in using all of their senses to learn about the world around them and to make connections between new information and what they already know.  Our planned activities support them in developing an understanding of the importance of physical activity and making healthy choices in relation to food. 
The children enjoy the benefits of Yoga and the Nursery staff have been trained how to use yoga in the classroom to improve children’s learning ability and
overall well-being, specifically through playfulness and fun of age-appropriate yoga postures, associated games, rhymes, colours, songs and stories

Creative Development – Childrens creativity supports their natural curiosity, exploration and play.  Children are provided with opportunities to explore and share their thoughts, ideas and feelings for example through a variety of art, music, movement, dance, imaginative and role-play activities.  Creativity is further encouraged through the use of projects linked to the adult led activities. 

 



The six areas of learning and development