Curriculum to Saplings Nursery
Our Curriculum at Saplings Nursery, Leeds
Key Learning Areas
Our curriculum is divided into themed learning areas that spark children's curiosity and ignite their imagination. From exploring "What Lives Underground" to discovering "What Is in the Night Sky," each theme provides a springboard for hands-on exploration, inquiry-based learning, and meaningful connections to the world around us.
Forest School
At Saplings Nursery, we're passionate about connecting children with nature and the great outdoors. Our Forest School programme offers children the opportunity to explore and learn in natural settings, fostering a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for the environment. From nature walks to outdoor art projects, our Forest School programme provides unique and enriching experiences that deepen children's connection to the natural world.
Events & Activities
In addition to our themed learning areas, Saplings Nursery offers a wide range of special events and activities throughout the year. From festive nativities and talent shows to reading for pleasure sessions and treasure hunts, there's always something exciting happening at Saplings. These special events not only add an element of fun and excitement to the curriculum but also provide valuable opportunities for children to develop social skills, creativity, and confidence.
Our Curriculum
Our nursery curriculum is a vibrant tapestry woven from the unique threads of each child's interests and needs. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring a well-rounded foundation for learning across all areas. However, the magic happens when we observe and listen to the children themselves. Do they gravitate towards building towers or creating stories? Are they fascinated by butterflies or the rhythm of drums? We embrace these sparks of curiosity, turning them into engaging activities that nurture their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. This child-centred approach ensures that every day is an adventure in learning, fuelled by their natural desire to explore and discover.
Believe
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Topic | What lives underground? | What is in the night sky? |
| Curriculum Driver | Understanding the World | Understanding the World |
| Key Events | Forest School | Nativity |
| Quality Texts | Superworm | Owl Babies |
| Reading for pleasure | The very busy spider – Eric Carle | Whatever Next – Jill Murphy |
| Project 1* | Bug Hotel | Van Gogh Starry Night |
| Project 2* | Nativity | |
| Phonics | Phase 1 | Phase 1 |
| PSHE (Scarf) | Me and my relationships | Valuing difference |
Belong
| Spring 1 | Spring 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Topic | What makes me special? | Do all babies look like their parents? |
| Curriculum Driver | Understanding the World | Understanding the World |
| Key Events | Talent Show | Zoo Lab |
| Quality Texts | Talent Show | Monkey Puzzle – Julia Donaldson |
| Reading for pleasure | The Mixed Up Chameleon – Eric Carle | The very hungry caterpillar – Eric Carle Monkey Puzzle – Julia Donaldson |
| Project 1* | Pebble People | Caterpillar Lifecycle |
| Project 2* | Talent Show | Food Festival |
| Phonics | Phase 1 | Phase 1 |
| PSHE (Scarf) | Keeping safe | Rights and Respect |
Become
| Summer 1 | Summer 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Topic | What will I be when I grow up? | Who uses maps?the World |
| Curriculum Driver | Understanding the World | Understanding the World |
| Key Events | Visit from… | Pirate Day |
| Quality Texts | Boys Can Girls Can | Pirate Pete and his stinky feet |
| Reading for pleasure | Just one of those days – Jill Murphy | Peace at Last – Jill Murphy |
| Project 1* | Guest Visits | Treasure Hunt |
| Project 2* | I am a … | Pirate Day |
| Phonics | Phase 1 | Phase 1 |
| PSHE (Scarf) | Being my best | Growing and Changing |
Learning Through Play
At the heart of our curriculum is the belief that children learn best through play. Through play-based activities, children are able to explore, experiment, and make sense of the world around them in a safe and supportive environment. Whether they're building with blocks, creating art masterpieces, or role-playing in our imaginative play areas, children are actively engaged in learning experiences that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional development.