Early years education is a cornerstone of lifelong learning, and its importance cannot be overstated. As highlighted in a recent report by OFSTED, Best Start in Life Part 3: The 4 Specific Areas of Learning, a high-quality early years curriculum is essential to ensure every child gets the best start in life. At St. George’s Nursery, we are committed to fostering a love for learning by providing enriching experiences in literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design.
Why Early Education Matters
Research makes it clear: early education is too vital to leave to chance. Not all children begin their educational journey on equal footing. Differences in the level of support they receive at home can significantly impact their development. This is where a high-quality early years curriculum can bridge the gap, equipping children with the tools they need to thrive.
The 4 Specific Areas of Learning
1. Literacy
Early literacy is foundational to children’s success, both academically and emotionally. At St. George’s Nursery, we emphasise:
- Language and vocabulary development: Stories, rhymes, and songs are integral to building language skills.
- Emotional understanding: Engaging with stories helps children develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
2. Mathematics
Mathematical skills foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Our approach combines deliberate teaching with play-based learning, focusing on:
- Number recognition and spatial reasoning
- Encouraging positive attitudes to mathematics
3. Understanding the World
This broad area of learning lays the groundwork for subjects such as science, geography, and history. By connecting new ideas to familiar contexts, we help children:
- Build on their existing knowledge
- Develop vocabulary to articulate their understanding
- Engage in meaningful, real-world learning experiences
4. Expressive Arts and Design
Creativity and self-expression are at the heart of this area. Through activities like painting, music, and role play, children:
- Learn new skills and appreciate the arts
- Develop their creativity and problem-solving abilities
- Build confidence by expressing their ideas and emotions
Guiding Principles for High-Quality Early Years Education
To ensure every child receives the best possible start, we adhere to the following principles:
- High-quality interactions: Meaningful conversations between children and practitioners promote critical thinking and learning.
- Sequenced learning: Knowledge and skills are taught in an age-appropriate sequence to build a strong foundation.
- Executive function development: Activities are designed to enhance children’s working memory, self-regulation, and problem-solving skills.
- Individualised support: Practitioners assess each child’s needs to provide tailored guidance and support.
Empowering Practitioners for Success
Delivering a high-quality curriculum requires skilled and knowledgeable practitioners. At St. George’s Nursery, our team undergoes regular professional development to:
- Understand how children develop and learn
- Plan appropriate next steps in children’s education
- Teach effectively and assess learning progress
Equal Opportunities for All Children
Every child deserves a fair chance to learn, regardless of their background. By carefully designing our curriculum, we ensure that children from disadvantaged backgrounds receive the support they need to thrive alongside their peers.
Partnering with Families for a Brighter Future
We recognise that parents are children’s first educators. By collaborating closely with families, we create a cohesive learning experience that extends beyond the nursery setting.
Join Us at St. George’s Nursery
At St. George’s Nursery, we are proud to offer an environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. Our commitment to excellence in early years education ensures that every child has the best possible start in life.
Discover more about our approach and how we support children’s development by visiting our nurseries or contacting us today. Together, we can build a brighter future for your child.
