Our Vision

As a setting we undertake a working agreement to ensure high aspirations for our children, as well as our aspirations for ourselves as Practitioners. We take influences from new pedagogies such as the Curiosity Approach bringing back awe and wonder into childhood, as well as taking influences from established pedagogies such as Vygotsky’s scaffolding theory where our staff explain and model behaviours for learning. To the Reggio Emilia approach to learning which keeps the child at the centre and promotes independence and self-directed experiential learning, in relationship-driven environments.

In a society that is increasing in pace, we have identified a need to have a strong approach to supporting children’s emotional well being, At Chapel Hill we have chosen to offer children reduced screen time experiences, but focus more on outdoor physical learning and Literacy. We consider ourselves as having a low-tech high touch approach to learning, which means we have some opportunities for children to develop ITC skills, but we prioritise our hands on physical learning as well as early writing skills, making the most of our wonderful outdoor space. We use the Early Years Foundation Stage to support our curriculum, and encourage parents to share their at home learning using our free parentzone learning journal App, as well as offering ideas for at home learning. Parents may also find this document a useful tool for tracking learning at home. What-to-expect-in-the-EYFS-complete-FINAL-16.09-compressed.pdf (foundationyears.org.uk)

Our commitment to the environment

As a setting we are committed to reducing waste and do this by recycling our waste at every opportunity.

We have removed all non-essential single use plastic and are committed to retiring our plastic toys at the end of their lives and replacing them with items made from more sustainable materials.

Where possible we will try to upcycle natural/recycled items and celebrate that toys can be open ended and made of natural materials. This not only helps the environment but supports our vision of encouraging curious minds, and the wonder and imagination of our children.

We encourage families to donate unwanted clothes and toys to our air ambulance recycling banks which are located in our car park. By recycling clothes and toys we hope to reduce unnecessary landfill and raise money for charity.