1. A warm and successful start to school life
Starting Nursery or Reception is a significant step — for children and for families. At Springfield, we take that responsibility seriously. From the very first visit, we focus on helping every child feel safe, known and secure.
As a one-form entry school, we are small enough to build strong relationships quickly. Staff take time to understand each child — their interests, their personality and their needs. Gentle transition visits, clear communication and calm daily routines help children settle confidently and at their own pace.
Kindness, clear boundaries and consistent expectations support children to grow in independence. Whether hanging up their coat, choosing resources, speaking in a group or trying something new, children are encouraged to take small, confident steps every day.
Our Nursery and Reception classes follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the statutory framework for children from birth to five. This ensures that children’s learning, development, wellbeing and safety are carefully supported throughout their early years. You can find our full safeguarding information and policies on the Safeguarding page of this website.
2. Learning through play, talk and exploration
In the Early Years, children learn best through active exploration and purposeful play. At Springfield, play is carefully planned, thoughtfully structured and guided by skilled adults.
Each day includes a balance of child-led exploration and adult-guided learning. Children build, investigate, role-play, create, count, draw and solve problems together. Adults join sensitively — modelling language, extending vocabulary, asking questions and introducing new ideas to deepen thinking.
Communication and language are at the heart of everything we do. We talk, listen, sing, tell stories and introduce new vocabulary every day. Strong language development underpins reading, writing, thinking and forming friendships. Staff carefully observe children as they play and learn, using this understanding to plan next steps and ensure steady progress.
In Nursery, the focus is on confidence, curiosity and early social development. In Reception, children build on this foundation as they begin early reading, writing and number work in practical, engaging ways.
3. Outdoor learning and Forest School
Outdoor learning is an integral part of our Early Years curriculum. Children have regular access to our on-site woodland and take part in weekly Forest School sessions led by a specialist teacher.
Forest School is not separate from learning — it strengthens it. Outdoors, children develop language as they describe and explain, physical skills as they climb and balance, and problem-solving skills as they explore natural materials. They learn to assess risk safely, work collaboratively and persevere.
Time in nature supports wellbeing, independence and resilience. Children grow in confidence as they try new things and experience success.
4. Working in partnership with families
Strong partnerships with families help children thrive. Before children start, we offer visits and opportunities to meet staff and ask questions. We understand that beginning school can feel emotional, and we are always available to talk.
We keep families informed through regular updates, shared learning and daily conversations. Your knowledge of your child matters deeply, and we work together to support learning at home and school.
For full details about Nursery and Reception admissions, including how to apply, please visit our Admissions page.
By the end of Reception, children leave the Early Years as confident, capable learners — ready and excited for the next stage of their journey at Springfield.