“Staff observe children as they play. They use what they know about the children to plan interesting and stimulating activities that are rooted in their interests.”
- OFSTED
Early Years Foundation Stage
At Oakland Hall Day Nursery our curriculum is based upon the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) which is defined by the Department for Education (DFE).
The Early Years Foundation Stage framework is reflected in our practice within an environment that ensures children experience a variety of rich play experiences which are carefully planned.
We encourage children to reach their full potential whilst allowing them to develop at their own pace. Each child’s development is closely monitored and encouraged.
Also, each Tuesday the super saplings and mighty oaks take part in tiny tots ballet. A dance teacher coms into the nursery and teachers the children’s different movements to music. Each term there is different theme such as ‘under the sea’ and ‘teddys bear picnic’.
We are also considering yoga/baby dance classes.
Working with parents
Our relationship with parents is a key element to our success, and is essential to the well – being, development and progress of your child during their time at Oakland Hall Day Nursery. We welcome any new ideas from parents.
CUSP – Curriculum with Unity Schools Partnership
Our Early Years Curriculum is designed to meet the unique needs of every child, regardless of their ability or stage of development. It offers flexibility, allowing us to tailor learning experiences to the needs and interests of each child. Our curriculum is based on the CUSP (Curriculum with Unity Schools Partnership) framework, ensuring a well-sequenced, cumulative, and language-rich approach.
The CUSP Early Foundations curriculum is structured around three key components:
- Foundational Knowledge: This focuses on what children should know and be able to do throughout the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) in granular detail.
- Opportunities and Experiences: We provide play-based and guided learning opportunities that encourage children to explore, experiment, and engage with new concepts. These experiences are designed to deepen their understanding and foster critical thinking.
- Structured Story Time: Core texts are used to introduce weekly key vocab (along with Makaton signs), ideas, and themes that support the development of foundational knowledge.
The Early Years Foundation Stage framework is reflected in our practice within an environment that ensures children experience a variety of rich play experiences which are carefully planned. We encourage children to reach their full potential whilst allowing them to develop at their own pace, while also closely monitoring each child’s development.