Play and active learning
Play and active learning is central to our nursery curriculum. It allows children to learn how to share and be part of a group, or to observe and join in when ready.
A holistic approach to learning is particularly important to young children and their understanding of various curricular areas can be developed through everyday experiences, supported by staff.
Our practice in the infants building is underpinned by the four key principles of the Pre-Birth to Three guidelines: Rights of the child, Relationships, Responsive Care and Respect. Our staff refer to the Pre-Birth to Three documents to provide the quality experiences children under 3 need, including feeding, nappy changes, cuddles, music, outdoor play and sensory activities (as well as many others!)
Experiences, Activities and Resources
A variety of experiences, activities and resources are available to the under 3’s in line with the Pre-Birth to Three documents including:
- Stories, rhymes and music activities help support language development, provide opportunities to explore facial expressions, and support physical development and expression through music.
- Simple interactive games such as Peek-a-boo with our youngest children encourages social interaction with others
- Sand/water/messy/sensory play encourages younger children to explore different materials and resources, and develop creativity.
- Outdoor play and walks in the local environment supports children’s physical development and allows for exploration of objects such as stones, leaves and sticks (under supervision).
- Stimulating conversation, interactive play and learning to socialise, share and make friends is all part of the nursery day!
More…
For our older children we offer a wide range of experiences and opportunities to develop knowledge and skills related to the eight curricular areas of the Curriculum for Excellence, from the ‘Early Level’. Our children continue with these Outcomes and Experiences from the Early Level through to the end of Primary 1 (and beyond in some cases). The eight curricular areas are:
- Expressive Arts Health & Well being
- Language Mathematics
- Religious & Moral education Science
- Social Studies Technologies