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Pedagogy
Our pedagogy is based on the principle that children are capable and competent learners. We listen to our children's interests and respond to them appropriately in order to foster confidence, independence and to enable children to realise their potential as effective learners.
We feel inspired by the approaches of Reggio Emilia, Scandinavian early years education models and Forest School.
Our pedagogy is rooted in listening to the child's voice which allows children to develop a presence within the setting as respected and valued members within a community. The children's voices are heard and valued. Practitioners respond to the children's expressions by being a supportive peer and a helpful guide; enabling children to take ownership of their discoveries and learning.
We view the environment as an inspirational educator. We have transformed our setting to include natural and real resources rather than plastic toys which often can only be used in one way. Natural resources open up so many possibilities for children to explore, be creative, experiment and use their imagination. For younger babies, natural resources found in treasure baskets serve as a way for them to experience and develop their senses. Babies might engage in their earliest forms of verbal communication as they babble with joy while they explore a treasure basket alongside an adult. For older children, we have incorporated opportunities for loose parts play which opens up a plethora of possibilities. For example, pre-school children have recently begun experimenting with transient art.
Our passion for outdoor learning and Forest School goes hand in hand with our commitment to Reggio Emilia. Our trained forest school staff take a group of children for regular sessions in a local reserve where the children engage in fun, problem-solving, risk-taking activities. The activities undertaken are based on the children's interests and the risks taken are measured against the children's ability. A calculated risk might be, for example, allowing a child to balance along a log. Forest School enthuses children to engage with the outdoors and nature; it builds confidence, social skills and resilience. Please see our Forest School page for more information.
Through our vision, pedagogy and curriculum, we hope that our children will continue to have the confidence to pursue their interests and to develop a life-long love of learning.
