Even the youngest members of the school who have recently joined the nursery and reception classes already know the new routines and have settled well. It’s been clear they are enjoying learning through play and exploring all the environment has to offer. 

Recently, the children recreated the classic children’s adventure tale, ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’. Donning their Wellington boots and heading out into the school’s extensive grounds, the youngsters made their way across a range of terrains, and with imaginations running wild, went in search of the bear. Luckily, everyone returned safe and well from their adventure!

An important part of the school’s culture is to ensure all children feel a sense of belonging. One of the ways this is achieved is to assign pupils to one of four Houses - Griffin, Lion, Unicorn or Dragon. Siblings from the same household are in the same House.

Headteacher, Jeanette Allen said: ‘Early Years at The Downs Primary School and Nursery gives children a really stimulating environment.  From the second they start school, we strive to promote a love of learning in our young people and form close relationships with parents and carers to ensure every child has a comfortable transition into school life.

‘Our Early Years Team work closely together to promote continuity across early years and are keen to develop home / school partnerships through meeting with parents, weekly newsletters and the use of the school’s online journal to share great learning.

‘As soon as they start nursery, our children learn essential life skills, including early reading through the extensive phonics programme and developing writing skills through storytelling. The environment provides pupils with free-flow opportunities to make friends and increase their social skills. We use our large outdoor area as an extension of our classrooms and invite the children to learn outside and explore their natural environment.

‘It’s been so encouraging to see how our children are willing to engage with new concepts and develop skills and knowledge to reach their academic potential. Our children feel happy and safe and have a sense of belonging to their class, House and our school. Our motto is ‘believe, achieve and be proud’, and we strive to ensure our children do just that’.

If you are interested in finding out more about the school’s nursery and early years provision, please go to the website for updates, newsletters and the presentation slideshow: https://www.downsschool.com/

The school also welcomes visits from prospective parents (adhering to social distancing guidelines). Please call the school office to book an appointment on (01279) 445538.