St Andrew's Prep - Nursery Parent Information Booklet 2023-2024

Co NteNts

WelCome

From the Head of Nursery

I would like to begin by welcoming you and all your family to St Andrew’s Prep Nursery.

St Andrew’s Prep Nursery is a popular choice for parents due to the nurturing and stimulating environment it offers. The dedicated and highly experienced staff at the nursery are exceptional. They care about the well-being and development of every child, working tirelessly to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where children feel secure, happy and motivated to learn.

The nursery’s curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide children with a solid foundation in all areas of learning. A key emphasis is placed on play-based learning, a highly effective approach for young children.

In addition to the comprehensive core curriculum, St Andrew’s Prep Nursery offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs to help children discover and develop their unique interests and talents. From music to dance to tennis and gymnastics, there is something to captivate every child’s imagination. The school’s excellent facilities including a wellstocked library, a sprawling outdoor play area and state of the art sports hall, further enhance the learning experience.

St Andrew’s Prep Nursery also places great importance on pastoral care, recognising that each child is unique with individual needs. Staff are always available to listen and offer emotional support to the children.

The school’s commitment to providing a nurturing and supporting learning environment, coupled with its excellent facilities and experienced staff, make it an ideal destination for young children embarking on their educational journey.

I hope that reading this booklet will be just the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership between you and your family, St Andrew’s Prep and the wider community.

I look forward to meeting you and your children.

Mr Jim Tantram Head of Nursery

Nursery Co NtaC ts

Headmaster

Tom Gregory BA Hons, PGCE

Head of Nursery

Jim Tantram FdA in Early Years

jbtantram@standrewsprep.co.uk

01323 744830

Deputy Head of Nursery Curriculum Leader and SENDco

Sugra Marshall BA (Hons) MA (Early Years) smarshall@standrewsprep.co.uk

General Nursery Enquiries nurserymanager@standrewsprep.co.uk

Headmaster’s PA

Annette Adams achadams@standrewsprep.co.uk 01323 733203

School Office

Louisa Snell, Katie McDonald info@standrewsprep.co.uk www.standrewsprep.co.uk

01323 733203

01323 646860

Absences and Medical Issues absence@standrewsprep.co.uk medical@standrewsprep.co.uk 01323 744834

Financial Matters

Louise Maryan (based at Eastbourne College) finance@eastbourne-college.co.uk 01323 452237

Catering Manager

James Hillman

jahillman@standrewsprep.co.uk 01323 744826

Contact the School Office for: General enquiries, appointments with the Headmaster, contacting staff members

Contact the Headmaster’s PA for: Appointments with the Headmaster or Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep

Contact the School Nurse for: Children’s absences, health and medical issues

a t ypi C al Day iN the Nursery

A typical day at St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery offers a wellstructured routine that ensures the children feel secure and engaged in their learning. The nursery operates for 50 weeks a year, Monday to Friday, from 8.00am to 6.00pm during term time as well as our holiday club which runs during all school holidays (except two weeks at Christmas).

One of the unique advantages of St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery is that the children have access to the extensive facilities available in the Pre-Prep and Prep departments. Children can enjoy the vast playing fields, sports hall, tennis courts, Woodland Classroom, chapel, dining room and the purpose-built nursery facilities.

Children typically arrive at the nursery by 8.15am, although for those who arrive at 8.00am, a light breakfast of toast and cereal is offered before the working day officially begins at 8.30am.

Parents can say their goodbyes and inform their children that they are leaving. We recognise the importance of children feeling at ease when their parents are not present. While your support is crucial, we understand that it can sometimes be challenging for children to settle while parents are still present.

If you have any concerns after leaving your child, please don’t hesitate to call the nursery. The staff will be happy to provide reassurance and address any worries you may have. If the staff are occupied with the children, you can leave a message on the voicemail.

The Kingfisher class (pre-school class) is based in the EYFS hub alongside the Reception class. twice a week, the pre-school class join the Pre-Prep for assembly at 8.45am. During assembly, the children sing songs and participate in stories or discussions. The Headmaster also attends assembly once a week, taking the opportunity to congratulate children on their special achievements.

Circle time is an essential part of the nursery routine. It offers a platform for children to share ideas and express their feelings with their classmates. It encourages active participation, promoting both speaking and listening skills. Even the youngest children are encouraged to care for

one another

and develop a sense of empathy.

Throughout the morning, various activities are planned based on the children’s current interests. You will often find the children engaged in these interest-based activities, fostering their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery provides a wide range of specialist lessons, including Woodland Classroom, Tiny Dancers, Tots Tennis, Spanish Fun, Gym Joeys, Music Maestros, and Cheeky Chefs.

Mid-morning brings a break for the children, where they have the opportunity to enjoy a drink of milk or water, breadsticks, and a selection of fruit. The purpose-built nursery play area is an inviting space, which allows the children to explore climbing equipment, play with toy cars, create music, and make use of the spacious sandpit area.

Lunchtimes are staggered to ensure that children have ample time to enjoy a healthy and balanced two-course meal. The lunch break usually begins around 11.30am and lasts for approximately 40 minutes. Children in Kingfisher have their lunch in the dining room of the Prep School, where they sit alongside Reception children, fostering a sense of community within the whole school. Children in Starling and Nightingale have their lunch in the dining room at St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery.

After lunch, the children engage in quieter activities such as story-time, puzzles, and table activities based on the children’s interests. For younger children who still require an afternoon nap, there are three sleep rooms that are regularly monitored. The afternoon session also offers a wide variety of focused activities such as soft play, art club, book worms and cooking. At 3.00pm, an afternoon snack is provided, and the first part of the afternoon session concludes with, stories, and songs. Children can be collected at the end of a session, either at 4.00pm or 6.00pm. For those staying late, a hot tea is served at 4.30pm during term time in the nursery dining room located in the Lodge building.

At St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery, each day is carefully planned to provide a balanced and stimulating experience for the children. The routine allows for a smooth transition between activities, ensuring a nurturing environment that promotes growth, learning, and happiness.

Nursery C lasses a ND

startiN g iNformatio N

Starling class

The Starling class at St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery is specifically designed for children aged 9 months to 2 years. The class is divided into two separate rooms: one for non-walkers and the other for our young movers. Conveniently located on the first floor of the Nursery, the Starling class features a dedicated nappy changing room for ease and efficiency. Additionally, there is a quiet sleeping room equipped with a baby monitoring system, ensuring the safety of the children at all times.

Nightingale class

The Nightingale class at St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery is tailored for children aged 2 to 3½ years. This class is situated on the ground floor of the nursery, providing easy access for the little ones. It includes a designated nappy room and toilets specifically designed for toilet training. A separate sleep room for those children who still require an extra nap during the day is also nearby. The children in the Nightingale class have the freedom to move between both rooms and have access to the outdoor area.

Kingfisher class

The Kingfisher class at St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery is located in the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) hub, which is situated next door to our reception class. Here, the children have the opportunity to access the same resources as the Nursery and participate in specialist lessons. In addition, the Kingfisher class benefits from specific resources within the EYFS hub that are designed to enhance their readiness for school days.

Sessions

Session timings are as follows:

• 8.00am to 1.00pm

• 1.00pm to 6.00pm

• 8.00am to 4.00pm

• 8.00am to 6.00pm

For detailed information regarding the fees associated with each session, please refer to the Scale of Charges on the website.

Opening times

The Nursery is open from Monday to Friday, from 8.00am to 6.00pm, for 50 weeks of the year. Please note that the nursery is closed over the Christmas and New Year period, Bank Holidays and INSET days before the start of the academic year.

Settling in

To ensure a smooth transition and help children settle quickly, we offer two free two-hour “settling in” periods for children in all classes (subject to availability). These settling in periods can be scheduled during the week prior to a child’s official start. It provides an opportunity for children to become familiar with the environment and meet their teachers. They take place from 9.30am to 11.30am or 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Starting Nursery Questionnaire

A questionnaire is sent to all parents of new children starting in the Nursery. In this questionnaire, you are invited to share information about your child’s likes, dislikes, worries, and special interests with the Nursery staff. This valuable input helps the staff understand and nurture your child’s skills and capabilities.

Key Person Allocation

Once your child starts at the Nursery, they will be assigned a dedicated Key Person who will provide individualised care and support, ensuring that your child’s needs are met throughout their time in the nursery.

Transitioning from one class to another

At 9 months of age, children start in the Starling class until they reach 2 years old.

At the age of 2, they will then transition to the Nightingale class, where they will stay until they reach 3 1/2 years old.

At the age of 3½, they will transition to the pre-school Kingfisher class with their cohort in the EYFS Hub.

Throughout these transitions, St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery ensures a seamless process, with specialised lessons and activities tailored to each age group, allowing children to progress smoothly through each stage of their learning experience.

Meals and snacks

During term time, nutritious meals and snacks are provided, and these are included in the fees. If your child has any specific dietary requirements, please inform us, and we will cater to their needs accordingly. Freshly prepared lunch and tea are served on-site each day in the dedicated dining room on the ground floor of the Nursery. However, during the Holiday Club, parents must provide snacks, lunch, and tea for their children based on their chosen sessions. Please note that we maintain a nut-free environment in the Nursery.

Requirements

Parents are responsible for providing nappies and several changes of clothing for their child, along with wipes, nappy cream, and eight-hour sun cream when applicable. Additionally, please ensure your child has a coat, wellies and a warm hat during winter and a sun hat for summer.

the Nursery Curri Culum explaiNeD

Exploring the Key Areas of Learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is a crucial period in a child’s development, laying the foundation for future learning and growth. Within the EYFS framework, there are seven key areas of learning that encompass various aspects of a child’s development. Let’s explore each of these areas and their significance in nurturing well-rounded and confident learners.

Personal, Social, and Emotional Development

Personal, social, and emotional development focuses on supporting children in building positive relationships, developing self-confidence, and managing their emotions effectively. Through engaging activities and interactions, children learn to understand their feelings, empathise with others, and develop crucial social skills that form the basis for healthy relationships.

Communication and Language

Communication and language development emphasises the importance of effective communication skills, both in expressing oneself and understanding others. Children are encouraged to engage in conversations, develop vocabulary, and hone their listening skills. Through storytelling, role-playing, and various languagebased activities, they gradually become confident communicators.

Physical Development

Physical development promotes the growth of fine and gross motor skills. Children are provided with ample opportunities for active play, which aids in building strength, coordination, and spatial awareness. From climbing and balancing to handling tools and mark-making, physical development activities foster healthy habits and lay the groundwork for further physical growth.

Literacy

Literacy skills encompass reading, writing, and an overall love for language. Through exposure to books, storytelling, and phonics activities, children develop their early reading skills, while writing activities encourage them to explore mark-making and letter formation. A solid foundation in literacy equips children with the

tools to become confident readers and writers as they progress through their educational journey.

Mathematics

Mathematics is a fundamental area of learning that introduces children to numerical concepts, shape recognition, patterns, and problem-solving. Through hands-on activities, counting games, and exploring shapes and quantities, children develop a solid mathematical understanding. They learn to make connections, reason logically, and develop a love for exploring mathematical concepts.

Understanding the World

Understanding the world encourages children to explore their environment, develop curiosity, and broaden their knowledge about the world around them. Activities in this area cover various subjects, such as science, history, geography, and technology. Through investigation, observation, and hands-on experiences, children develop an understanding of different cultures, the natural world, and the basic principles of technology.

Expressive Arts and Design

Expressive arts and design nurture a child’s creativity and imagination. Through art, music, dance, and role-play, children explore different forms of self-expression. They develop their artistic skills, experiment with different materials, and learn to appreciate various forms of creative expression. This area of learning encourages children to think creatively, problem-solve, and express themselves confidently.

The EYFS framework recognises the interdependence of these areas and emphasises a holistic approach to early childhood education. By providing a rich and stimulating learning environment, with activities that encompass each of these key areas, educators and parents can support children in their overall development and ignite their passion for learning.

In conclusion, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) lays the foundation for lifelong learning. By focusing on the key areas of personal, social, and emotional development, communication and language, physical development, literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design, children are equipped with essential skills, knowledge, and attitudes that will serve them well throughout their educational journey and beyond.

Assembly

Kingfisher class joins the Pre-Prep children for two assemblies each week. During the Celebration Assembly, led by the Head of Pre-Prep, children are congratulated on their achievements. Once a week, the Headmaster’s Assembly gives the children an opportunity to get to know the Headmaster and listen to a story.

Outdoor Classrooms

In addition to our dedicated outdoor play area, children have access to safe and secure areas within the school grounds, including Woodland Classroom and expansive playing fields. These spaces offer children the freedom to work, investigate, and experiment, fostering imagination and role-play away from the indoor environment.

Woodland Classroom

Our Woodland Classroom, located near the main site, provides opportunities for children to explore nature, learn about pond life, discover mini-beasts, and appreciate various plants and trees. We emphasise respect for the natural world, encouraging children to replenish disturbed natural elements.

Moving Up Through the Nursery and Beyond

Children progress through different classes within the Nursery to ensure age-appropriate and structured activities. As they approach Reception, they have the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the PrePrep environment and teachers. They participate in assemblies, weekly story time, concerts, and themed weeks alongside Reception classes. This smooth transition builds strong relationships with peers and teachers, making the move to Pre-Prep seamless.

At St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum that prepares children for their educational journey while nurturing their individual growth and development.

CommuNi C atio N W ith pareNts

We strongly believe in fostering a welcoming and inclusive school community where the whole family is embraced. Building strong relationships and getting to know each other well is of utmost importance to us. By developing a deep understanding of each child’s unique needs and preferences, we can engage in constructive dialogue about their progress. We also aim to be a social centre, actively collaborating with parents and the wider community beyond St. Andrew’s Prep. Our dedication lies in the holistic education of every child, working closely in partnership with parents.

Children’s Development and Progress

Tracking children’s development is a fundamental aspect of our approach. It allows your child’s assigned Key Person to plan for their specific needs and preferences while providing insight into areas where they may benefit from additional support or encouragement in their learning and development. Parents’ evenings serve as an ideal opportunity to discuss your child’s stage of development.

Tapestry

Tapestry plays a crucial role in our work with your child. Through this software, you, as a parent, can access your child’s learning journey anytime, whether from home or your smartphone. You have the ability to view their progress, add comments, and upload pictures from home. At the end of your child’s time at Nursery or when they transition to Reception, you will receive an emailed link to download a copy of their complete learning journey.

Telephone

You can reach the Nursery directly at 01323 744830. In case the staff is unable to answer, the school office (01323 733203) is available from 8.00am to 6.00pm on weekdays. Outside of these hours, an answerphone is available to receive your message. During holidays, the office operates at reduced hours.

Calendar

The school calendar for the upcoming term is accessible through our website. By selecting ‘What’s On’ and then ‘School Calendar,’ or by following the link calendar. standrewsprep.co.uk, you can view and synchronize the

calendar with your computer or phone. You have the option to either synchronize filtered events or the entire calendar. Additionally, a hard copy of the termly calendar will be available from the Nursery. Please consult your room leader for a copy.

Contact Details

It is essential that we have the ability to contact parents at any time during the school day. Please keep us informed of any changes, particularly regarding mobile phone numbers or relevant contact addresses.

Collection

To ensure the safety and well-being of your child, it is important to provide the nursery staff with any necessary information that may be relevant to their care. This includes notifying us if someone new will be collecting your child or if you require after-school care. In such instances, please inform the nursery staff in advance, providing details of the authorised person who will be collecting your child.

As an additional precaution, we kindly request that you provide a password for each child enrolled in our nursery. This password will serve as an extra security measure and will be used in situations where you are unable to personally collect your child.

Complaints Procedure

St. Andrew’s takes pride in the quality of teaching and pastoral care provided to our students. However, if parents have a complaint, we assure them that it will be handled in accordance with our Complaints Policy. You can access the policy from the School Office or through the Parents’ Portal.

health a ND meD i C al Care

The school Medical Centre is staffed by Registered General Nurses (RGNs), who attend to all medical and first aid needs at St. Andrew’s Prep. Additionally, members of staff are trained in Paediatric First Aid.

We kindly request that parents/guardians inform the School Medical Team of any additional medical needs that may arise with their child, which were not included in the Health Questionnaire completed upon joining St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery.

If your child requires medication during the school day, please ensure it is brought in its original packaging. It must be clearly labelled with the expiry date and your child’s name in English. Parents will be asked to complete a consent form for the administration of any medication. If you have any medical concerns, you can contact the School Nurse at 01323 744834 or via email at medical@ standrewsprep.co.uk.

If a child is unwell or sustains an injury, the Nursery staff will provide them with the appropriate care. If necessary, the child will be assessed by the duty nurse and parents will be asked to collect them if the nurse feels they need to be taken home. In the case of minor injuries, written information regarding the incident and any relevant advice, will be discussed with parents at the end of the day, and a signature on an incident form will be requested.

For children who have an inhaler prescribed, we request that one be brought into Nursery along with a spacer

and this will be kept with the Room Leader. The inhaler/ spacer must be clearly labelled with the child’s name. If a child requires an Adrenalin auto-injector for anaphylaxis, two auto-injector pens will need to be kept in school.

Infectious Diseases

Young children are more susceptible to infectious diseases, and determining when to send them back to school can be challenging.

It is extremely important parents inform the school if their child is unwell with details of the illness, so if necessary other parents and staff can be informed of any identified infectious diseases. We have some children and staff in school, who, due to medical conditions are immune-compromised and it is important they are kept informed of any illnesses circulating. It is essential children do not come in to school when they are unwell and there are some illnesses that require them to be kept off school for a set length of time to prevent other children being infected:

Raised temperature above 37.5 degrees following a child being unwell with a raised temperature of above 37.5 degrees, they must not return to school until they have had a normal temperature below 37.5 degrees, for at least 24 hours, without the need to use any Calpol (paracetamol)/ibuprofen medication to keep it down.

For other common childhood infectious diseases, including chicken pox, impetigo, hand, foot and mouth, slapped cheek and conjunctivitis, parents are encouraged to use the NHS website for current guidelines and advice:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/ infectious-illnesses-children/

Until lesions are crusted and healed, or 48 hours after commencing antibiotic treatment

Food and Nutrition

We recognise the importance of providing good food for children throughout the day. Sharing meals with friends and enjoying home-cooked food introduces children to the pleasure of nutritious meals. At St. Andrew’s, our highly trained chefs prepare food from fresh ingredients, tailoring menus to suit each age group. We accommodate most dietary requirements, and you can find the weekly menu on the website.

Absence

To inform us of your child’s absence, please email absence@standrewsprep.co.uk between 8.00am and 9.00am. Please note that we are unable to offer refunds for days missed due to illness or for holidays taken during term time.

Sun Awareness

The staff at St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery are committed to protecting children from the harmful effects of sun exposure while allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities. We work collaboratively with parents and children to ensure everyone is adequately protected when outdoors.

Through role play and stories, children are taught about the importance of sun safety and the potential harm the sun can cause to their skin. We will keep parents fully informed of any changes to this policy.

Parents of Nursery children should apply a high-factor sun cream (minimum SPF 30+) to their child before school or upon arrival. Children staying all day in the Nursery may have sun cream reapplied by staff following specific procedures (please refer to the Nursery and Pre-Prep Sun Policy for more information). Parents are required to provide consent by signing a form allowing staff to assist their child with sun cream application during the day. Additionally, children should bring a named Legionnaire-style sun hat for added protection to their neck area. Please provide a named water bottle for your child (avoid single-use bottles, please).

Parking

Parents with children in the Nursery have access to a drop-off and collection point in the visitors’ car park on Meads Street. The car park on Darley Road is reserved for staff use only.

g eNeral iNformatio N ( a –Z)

Friends of St. Andrew’s

The Friends of St. Andrew’s is a parent-led group dedicated to supporting and enhancing the children’s education. They organise various activities for children, parents, and staff while also raising funds for the benefit of the entire school community. Their efforts aim to foster cooperation, good relations, and strong connections between parents, staff, current and former students, and local residents. Some of the events organised by the Friends include bonfire night, Advent fair, quiz night, summer fair, and back to school tea party.

The Friends of St. Andrew’s warmly welcome any assistance with functions and events. If you would like to be involved, please contact the School Office. Each year group has a Friends’ representative who reaches out to new parents, providing support and guidance for any day-to-day questions you may have.

Holiday Care

During school holidays, the staff from St. Andrew’s Prep Nursery offer holiday care for children aged 9 months to 4 years. The holiday club operates from 8.00am to 6.00pm, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays, INSET days before the start of the academic year and a two-week break during the Christmas holidays).

The holiday club provides a range of activities such as arts and crafts and cookery. Children also have the opportunity to explore the Nursery playground, the extensive playing fields, and enjoy outings to our Woodland Classroom and the beach.

Fees for holiday care are charged on a session basis and added to the school bill, except for the summer holiday, where fees are payable in advance. Please note that meals or snacks are not provided during the Holiday Club. Kindly provide your child with snacks and lunch/tea according to their chosen sessions.

Ratio

In compliance with Ofsted regulations, the staff-to-child ratio is 1:8 for 3 and 4 year-olds, 1:5 for 2 year-olds, and 1:3 for children aged 9 months to 2 years.

School Policies

You can find copies of our policies, including Behaviour and Discipline, Anti-Bullying, Child Protection, and Sun Safety, on our website. Nursery-specific policies are available from the Head of nursery JBTantram@ standrewsprep.co.uk.

Special Events

Nursery children are invited to participate in various events held in the Pre-Prep Department, including Christmas entertainment, musical performances, endof-year concerts, themed weeks, harvest festival, carol service, sports day, and St. Andrew’s Day celebrations.

uNiform requiremeNts

What should my child bring to Nursery?

Children should wear comfortable and practical clothing suitable for everyday activities at Nursery. It is recommended to pack a spare set of clothes in a backpack each day. Please make sure to label all items brought to Nursery with your child’s name for easy identification.

All children will need:

• Waterproof coat suitable for all weather conditions

• Wellies

• A winter hat, gloves, and scarf

• Sunscreen and a sun hat

For the pre-school class, the navy hooded tracksuit top and bottom, navy shorts, and white polo shirt are compulsory. These items can be purchased from any supplier, but we recommend considering the branded version from Schoolblazer, especially if you plan for your child to transition to our Pre-Prep. The website is www. schoolblazer.com.

For more information or to request a prospectus, please contact Admissions on 01323 733203 or email admissions@standrewsprep.co.uk St Andrew’s Prep, Meads, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN20 7RP