Provision Overview

(See SEF for full details)

Safeguarding

At Woodcroft Nursery School, Safeguarding is embedded in every aspect of our curriculum and provision. We ensure children feel safe, secure and emotionally supported, which is foundational to their ability to learn and thrive. Our environment promotes supervised risk-taking through outdoor learning activities, helping children understand boundaries and safety while exploring the natural world. Staff are trained to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, and our partnership with parents and other stakeholders, such as governors, promotes a shared responsibility for children’s welfare.

Inclusion

We celebrate diversity and recognise each child as a unique individual. Our child-centred curriculum adapts to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEND. We provide differentiated support and ensure that every child has access to meaningful learning experiences. We are proud of the way we support children with SEND, tailoring provision so that all children make progress. Our inclusive approach is reflected in our commitment to the principle of ‘Belonging’- children feel connected to their school community and valued for who they are.  

Curriculum and Teaching

Our curriculum is broad, balanced and designed to foster a love of learning. It is rooted in play with a commitment to the prime areas of learning- Personal, Social, Physical and Communication and Language- and delivered through story-inspired themes, guided play, and curiosity-led approaches. We integrate the principle of ‘Being’; allowing children to experience life in the present moment through engaging, hands-on activities. Teaching is responsive and reflective, with staff acting as role models and using high-quality interactions to support progress. We build carefully on what children already know, ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive. Our staff use observations and assessments to shape learning experiences that spark curiosity, extend language and develop early literacy and numeracy.

We use engaging high-quality texts, poetry, rhymes, Helicopter Stories and Phase 1 Letters and Sounds to develop early literacy. Mathematical learning is embedded in everyday experiences, including cooking, which integrates multiple areas of development. Our outdoor environment supports holistic learning across all seven EYFS areas.

Achievement

Children make strong progress from their starting points, both academically and socially; developing a secure sense of self and a love of learning. We track impact through observations, assessments and reflective practice. The principle of ‘Becoming’ is evident as children grow in independence, resilience and self-awareness. Our curriculum supports children in becoming confident, capable learners who are well-prepared for school and beyond.

Attendance and Behaviour

We foster a culture of respect, kindness and cooperation. Children are supported to manage their feelings, resolve conflicts and persevere with challenges. We celebrate their enthusiasm for learning and help them develop resilience and independence. By working closely with families, we promote good attendance so children benefit fully from their time with us.

Children at Woodcroft develop positive attitudes to learning. They are encouraged to be:  

• Ready to Learn: Physically and emotionally prepared.
• Resourceful: Using initiative and varied strategies.
• Reflective: Learning from mistakes and progress.
• Reciprocal: Collaborating and supporting peers.
• Resilient: Persevering through challenges.

The 5 Rs are embedded in our daily routines and interactions, promoting a culture or respect, responsibility and reflection.

Personal Development and Wellbeing

We place strong emphasis on children’s emotional security and happiness. Staff build warm, trusting relationships that help children feel settled and confident. We support children in developing resilience and self-regulation, and we provide spaces and routines that promote calmness and comfort. Families are partners in promoting wellbeing, and we work together to ensure every child and family feels valued and cared for. We prioritise physical and mental wellbeing through our curriculum and environment. Activities in nature such as potion-making with blossom or storytelling with natural materials, fosters joy and creativity. Children learn to care for the environment and take supervised risks, which supports leadership and emotional resilience. Our strong focus on language and communication underpins all learning; promoting wellbeing through connection and expression.

Leadership and Governance

Our leadership team is committed to maintaining high standards and continually improving our practice. We invest in staff development so that our team has strong knowledge and skills. Safeguarding and wellbeing are priorities, and all our staff are confident in their responsibilities. We work in partnership with parents and the wider community, recognising that collaboration strengthens outcomes for children.

Leadership at Woodcroft ensures a clear vision and high expectations for all. Staff are supported in delivering a responsive curriculum, and parents are activity engaged through conferences, events and feedback systems. Governance supports continuous improvement and alignment with both Ofsted and EYFS frameworks.