Curriculum

At the heart of our Early Years provision is the Development Matters framework, which guides our child-centred, holistic approach to early learning and development. We recognise that every child is unique, and we celebrate their individual interests, strengths, and pace of learning. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to support all areas of development—personal, social, emotional, physical, and cognitive—through meaningful play, exploration, and positive relationships.

We create a nurturing and enabling environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to be curious, independent learners. Skilled practitioners observe and respond to each child’s needs, using these insights to shape learning experiences that inspire creativity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.

By laying these strong foundations in the early years, we aim to support every child to thrive and reach their full potential.

Communication & Language Development

We understand that communication and language are central to every aspect of a child’s development. From an early age, children learn how to communicate through everyday experiences—by listening, watching, and engaging with the people around them. They build their vocabulary, begin to understand the flow of conversation, and learn the important social skill of turn-taking through meaningful interactions with peers and adults.

We create a language-rich environment that encourages children to express themselves confidently and to develop strong listening and speaking skills. This includes the use of pictures, signs, leaflets, and labels in a variety of styles and formats, helping to build familiarity with language in all its forms. Our role play areas are regularly updated to reflect real-life experiences such as a doctor’s surgery, hairdressers, or travel agents, encouraging imaginative play and the use of new vocabulary in context.

Storytelling and shared reading are key parts of our daily routine. We offer group and one-on-one story times, using a wide range of books including picture books, large-print texts, rhyming stories, fiction and non-fiction. Props like puppets and story sacks help bring stories to life, supporting children’s understanding and enjoyment. Rhymes, poems, and songs are also shared regularly, helping children tune into language patterns and rhythm.

Throughout our curriculum, we plan rich, hands-on experiences that naturally spark conversation—such as cooking, baking, or creative activities—giving children the chance to talk about what they are doing and noticing. These real-world contexts help them to build and use new vocabulary in meaningful ways.

We are fully inclusive and sensitive to each child’s stage of language development. For children learning English as an additional language, we work closely with families to encourage and value their home language, while supporting their development of English within the setting. If we feel that a child may benefit from additional support, we work in partnership with parents and carers to ensure their needs are met in a timely and sensitive manner.

Above all, we ensure children have time and space to talk—whether with peers or trusted adults—knowing that these early conversations form the foundation of confident communication and future learning.

Physical Development

Physical development is a key part of daily life at Little Owls. We provide children with a wide range of opportunities to move, explore, and develop confidence in their bodies—both indoors and out. Our nursery environment is carefully designed to promote physical growth, from climbing frames and balance bikes to mark-making stations and construction areas.

Children are supported in developing their gross motor skills—such as running, jumping, balancing, and climbing—as well as fine motor skills, like holding a pencil, using scissors, and manipulating small objects. These experiences help prepare children for writing, self-care, and greater independence as they grow.

We also place a strong emphasis on helping children understand how to care for their bodies. Through play, stories, and everyday routines, they learn about healthy eating, the importance of physical activity, personal hygiene, and the need for rest. Our aim is to inspire a lifelong love of movement and to support children in developing healthy habits from the very start.

Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)

At Little Owls, we know that happy, confident children are ready to learn. That’s why Personal, Social and Emotional Development is at the heart of our nursery practice. We create a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels safe, valued, and supported to be themselves.

From their very first days with us, children are encouraged to build positive relationships with both adults and peers. Through play-based learning, role play, and daily routines, we help them learn how to share, take turns, express their feelings, and begin to understand the emotions of others.

We foster independence, self-confidence, and resilience, gently encouraging children to try new things, solve problems, and manage challenges with support. Our staff are highly skilled at nurturing emotional well-being and guiding children as they learn to navigate friendships, cope with changes, and develop a strong sense of identity.

By promoting empathy, kindness, and a respect for others, we help children become thoughtful members of the Little Owls community—ready to take on the next steps in their learning journey with confidence and joy.