Principles of Nurture
1. Children's learning is understood developmentally.
2. The classroom offers a safe base.
3. Nurture is important for the development of self-esteem.
4. Language is a vital means of communication.
5. All behaviour is communication.
6. Transitions are significant in the lives of children.
Nurture Group
Enjoying and doing well at school is an important factor for the healthy development of children. Children attend Nurture Group for a variety of reasons, including; improving confidence; supporting and forming friendships and learning to match their behaviour to the expectations of school. Our Nurture Group will provide a safe and nurturing learning environment where each child is valued, understood and has their emotional needs met. Through these sessions, trust and confidence are built and learning begins to take place more effectively.
Will my child still be a member of their class?
Nurture Group runs Tuesday to Friday afternoons and your child will be allocated sessions according to their need. Other than this they will be taught within their own class. The Nurture Group will be fully integrated with the rest of the school. The school behaviour policy is followed giving the children consistent expectations between their own class and the Nurture Group.
How long will my child be a member of the Nurture Group?
There is no ‘fixed’ period of time for how long a child is a member of Nurture Group. Typical membership is 3-4 terms. Children will re-integrate into their own class following a natural school break. Their transition will be supported by specially trained Nurture staff.
Where is the Nurture Room?
The Nurture Cabin is situated at the rear of the school. We use this as it is fully equipped with a kitchen and space for cooking and messy play, with easy access to outdoor space.
What do children do at the Nurture Group?
The content of each afternoon will be structured and predictable. It will include a daily ‘Circle Time’ which gives space for the children to express their thoughts and feelings about things such as what they think makes someone a good friend. This is an excellent way of supporting the development of social and emotional behaviour. Circle time will be followed by a variety of teaching and learning activities. The activities planned will be mostly practical and active and may be based on a particular book or story. Examples include, playing board games, art and craft, role play, cooking and gardening. Children may also be taken on local trips (walking) to the park and shop. Teamwork and friendship are encouraged and adults support the social aspects of development. A very important part of Nurture Group is snack time. The children help prepare a snack, such as beans-on-toast, buttered toast, crumpets, sandwiches etc. The children will sit around a table, use good table manners and chat as a whole group.
Communication with Parents.
If your child is invited to join Nurture Group, you will receive a letter giving you more information. Once your child has started Nurture Group, parents will be invited into Nurture periodically to see how their child is progressing. There will also be an opportunity to meet with Nurture Staff.