The Little School Day Nursery | Petersfield

Our Approach

The three most popular educational approaches are Montessori, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia. All of these originated at the beginning of the 20th century as an attempt to counteract the educational crisis faced by Europe's most disadvantaged children. Forest School is a relatively modern approach that came to the UK from Sweden and Denmark in the 90s, having evolved over 40 years for early years.

The Little School has developed over 30 years and we continue to cherry pick the best parts of each educational approach. We know that every child is unique and one method cannot possibly work for every child.

At any moment, our educators will be practising different aspects of all of these unique methods. Our overarching belief is that to truly inspire the children in our care, we must provide numerous activities that will enchant and capture their imagination.

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How does your child learn?

Children learn in different ways, so to give them the best opportunities we must recognise their styles of learning.

Motivation will come more naturally if we consider a child's learning styles, plan around their interests, have fun and celebrate every achievement.

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Forest School

We provide opportunities for children to gain confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning in the natural world. We encourage all children to take part in outdoor activities from an early age, as this helps develop social skills, independence and motivation.

Our imaginative play spaces use all of a child’s senses, develop their imagination and promote health and well-being.

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Continuous self-improvement

In 2018 we introduced the Happy Minds Programme, became SEND Champions and gained Millie's Mark.

In 2017, we became NDNA Maths Champions and Literacy Champions.

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Nutritious, yummy food

Our nursery cooks make all food in view of the children to ensure all children learn about nutrition while enjoying delicious food.

Registered with the British Nutritional Foundation, HENRY (Health, Exercise and Nutrition for the Really Young) and the First Steps Nutrition Trust

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A great relationship with parents

The best possible outcomes for children come from nursery and parents working together.

When you join our nurseries, you agree to be involved in your child's learning. This is imperative to your child's academic success and well-being. We are here to help, support and offer advice where required.

From the first weeks of initial visits and sharing with you our interactive on-line learning journal, throughout your child's life at nursery, we will be promoting many fun activities to share with your child, such as 'Nature Detective Awards' and 'Home Activity Bags'.

Experience and innovation

Since 1990, we have worked incredibly hard to achieve the highest level of care, being awarded 'Outstanding' by Ofsted for both of our settings for our care of babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

We believe our success is due to the high quality of staff we employ, with over 60% either being supported to achieve a degree or already having completed one.

The staff therefore have a thorough understanding of child development and the value of working closely with parents to ensure the best possible outcomes for each child.

Our Promise to you

To create a rich environment that provides varied and imaginative experiences where children can excel.

To offer each child a series of personalised learning activities to stimulate and support all aspects of their development and ensure they feel safe and valued.