The Explorers room aims to create a positive and warm environment for independence. Responsibility charts are introduced, and self-help skills are nurtured and encouraged in a variety of ways. Introduction of pencil control, number and shape recognition are also an important factor within the Explorers room and are carried out in a relaxed and informal manner.
The children have time to explore in greater detail a wider range and variety of activities; arts and crafts, simple science, and the exploration of the outside environment, the doors to the outdoor areas are constantly open to encourage continues provision and we enjoy our weekly visits to forest school.
Toilet training is an area that is carried out within Little Explorers and staff work closely with parents on this important but sensitive issue. The Little Explorers benefit by having a toilet area within their room where toilet training can happen quite naturally with child size toilets with hand washing facilities to encourage independence and self-care, ensuring each child's modesty and privacy is maintained.
Staff plan for each individual child through regular observations and provide a next step for your child to work towards. Play plans are completed on a weekly basis and displayed for parents to review what activities are being carried out.
Here are some of the comments Ofsted made about Wells House Kindergarten in their latest report
The experienced and long standing management team are committed and passionate. They have high aspirations for the quality of the nursery. The management team regularly create clear targets to help them improve further.
Since the last inspection, they have forged links with local primary schools and nurseries and together they share good practice.
The environment is highly stimulating. Each area is carefully planned to capture children’s interests and to support their development. For example, older children benefit from a vast range of activities and interesting resources aimed specifically at supporting their literacy skills.
A wealth of information is exchanged between staff and parent’s. Staff offer well targeted support for parent’s to extend children’s learning at home. For example, parents are offered activities and professional advice, such as tips on promoting children’s speech. This contributes to the good progress that children make.
Staff provide a consistent approach to promoting children’s positive behaviour. For instance, staff working with very young children use picture cards to communicate positive messages, such as kind hands. Older children help to create the rules which are displayed in their room. All children’s behaviour is good in relation to their age.
Staff have a good understanding of safeguarding procedures. This is underpinned by effective policies. Consequently, children's safety and well-being is supported
The management team demonstrates a strong commitment to promoting high-quality childcare
Regular training opportunities undertaken by staff ensure qualification levels are high and they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide quality care and learning. This has had a positive impact on the learning experiences offered to children, particularly babies
