How we support learning and development
Children start to learn about the world around them from the moment they are born. At Windmills, we believe that children learn best through play, exploration and investigation in a stimulating and safe environment. We provide all of our children with interesting activities that are appropriate for their age and stage of development, and our Ofsted Report demonstrates that we continue to provide the children in our care the opportunities and environment in which they can thrive and grow.
Everything we aim to achieve is underpinned by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework and the following will give you detailed information about this framework and what it means for your child.
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
If you think your child has SEND, you can contact us at any time before your child starts and come in and speak with our SENDCo (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator). This way we can plan a way forward and develop strategies for when your child starts with us; whether this is a special routine, adaption of furniture, resources etc. We ask all parents/carers to fill in an application form before their child starts with us, to allow you to detail any SEND, and we can then ensure we meet with you prior to your child starting to discuss how best to approach their time with us. For more information please read our ‘Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Policy’.
Routine
Within the session we have a routine which has a play based learning approach with free-flow indoor and outdoor activities. Snack time, circle time and story time are all important parts of the session for the children’s independence, learning and development. Circle time encompasses a mixture of letters and sounds, safe play discussions, musical instruments, and activities based around the EFYS curriculum. Story time covers a range of discussions with the children, teddy ted news, wow moments, cookie the dog, singing and rhymes.
Learning Journals
We use an on-line Learning Journal to record your child's learning and development during their time at Windmills. Each child at Windmills has an Electronic Learning Journal which is accessed on–line through a system called Tapestry. This Journal is accessible to allow parents/carers to support their children’s learning at home and for you to be up-to-date on how your child is progressing at Windmills.