Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep brochure 2023-2024

ACORNS PRE-PREP

WE ARE ASHVILLE

Set within its own dedicated site on the spacious Ashville College campus, Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep is an exceptional place for pupils aged 2 to 5 years to thrive.

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we believe in laying the foundations for a lifelong love of learning, adventure and discovery. As your child takes their first steps into our enchanting world, we embark on a transformative journey that nurtures their boundless curiosity and shapes them into confident, compassionate individuals. Every moment at Ashville Acorns is a gateway to wonder. Our dedicated team of experienced Early Years’ professionals and teachers fosters an environment where imagination knows no bounds. As your child progresses through our inclusive Reception year, we ignite their inquisitive spirit, cultivate awareness of the world around them, and instil a genuine passion for learning that will forever spark their potential.

The early years are a magical phase where the greatest transformations occur. Research tells us that the period between 0 and 6 years is when children’s minds are most receptive, absorbing knowledge like sponges. At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we cherish this pivotal time and craft personalised learning experiences that cater to each

child’s unique strengths and interests. Our passionate educators prioritise building strong bonds with parents, working together to create a nurturing, supportive foundation for your child’s growth.

Within our close-knit community, children thrive in small class sizes, receiving unparalleled attention and care. As an integral part of Ashville College, our Pre-Prep opens doors to excellent resources and exceptional facilities, providing an enriching space for little minds to explore, dream, and reach for the stars.

Mrs Rhiannon Wilkinson MA (Oxon) MEd Head of Ashville College

Monty arrived with you just turned 2, a babe in arms, and is leaving ready to take on the world. Thank you for everything you have done in giving him the most wonderful experience and start to his education - from the extra touches to the daily routine, all with a sprinkling of magic and love.

Parent of a 2023 Acorns ‘graduate’

MEET THE TEAM

We recognise that nothing matters more to you as a parent than the safety and well-being of your child and choosing the right early years environment is a significant decision.

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we take these responsibilities to heart and have assembled an exceptional team of dedicated professionals who share a genuine passion for nurturing young minds.

Experienced, compassionate, and caring

Who to turn to: Safeguarding and Wellbeing team

a.spillman@ashville.co.uk 07485 392015

Meet our friendly staff

Our wonderful team of Early Years’ practitioners and teachers is the heart and soul of Ashville Acorns. Drawing from a wealth of experience and expertise, many of our caring educators boast over 15 years of working closely with children and families. Their dedication to shaping young lives extends beyond the classroom, as some of them have families of their own, granting them a deep understanding of the care and love every child deserves.

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, every child is warmly welcomed into a vibrant community of friendly faces. Among our team, you’ll encounter a diverse range of talents and passions that enrich the learning experience. From nurturing caregivers to inspiring educators, our staff forms a close-knit network dedicated to fostering an atmosphere of trust, respect, and genuine connection.

ARE

lmu@ashville.co.uk

01423 724829 (Ext: 4303)

07485 392140

NURTURED WE

a.gifford@ashville.co.uk

01423 724800 (Ext: 4212)

Allow us to introduce some of the extraordinary individuals you and your child will encounter:

HEAD OF ASHVILLE ACORNS PRE-PREP

Mrs Charlotte Cryer

DEPUTY HEAD OF ASHVILLE ACORNS

c.cryer@ashville.co.uk 01423 724810 (Ext: 4343)

RECEPTION CLASS TEACHER

Miss Georgi Bird

RECEPTION CLASS

j.wilkinson@ashville.co.uk

PRE-PREP

01423 724816 (Ext: 4271)

Mrs Anna Dixon

RECEPTION CLASS TEACHER

Mrs Vicki van Zeller

TEACHING ASSISTANT

Miss Mel Maber

Scan the QR code to find out about some of our team in more depth.

PRE-PREP SECRETARY

Mrs Sarah Gilman

Mrs Allison Spillman Deputy Head (Pupils)

DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING LEAD

Mrs Lucy Mullender

DEPUTY DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING LEADS

Mrs Sally Warren sw@ashville.co.uk

Mrs Amanda Gifford

Mrs Charlotte Cryer

Mrs Lindsay Lenehan Mrs Alison Wheatcroft Mrs Judy Gilmore

Mr James Wilkinson

Mrs Catherine Frieze Mrs Esther Jones

WELLBEING TEAM

Peer Mentors

HAPPY WE ARE

TO

GIVE THEM THE

BEST START IN LIFE…

From their very first day, we create an environment where children aged from 2 to 5 feel safe, secure, and ready to embark on an exciting educational journey.

A place of warmth and care

Nestled within our dedicated early years facility, your precious little person finds a haven of care and compassion. Here, children flourish as they explore the world around them, encouraged by our devoted team to embrace curiosity and creativity at every turn.

Igniting young imaginations

In our well-resourced and stimulating space, the magic of learning comes to life. Play, exploration, and creativity take centre-stage, empowering little minds to grow and thrive. Supported by our team of expert Early Years’ practitioners and teachers, children in every stageLittle Acorns, Acorns, and Reception - experience fun,

Thriving as thinkers and

Each day is a new adventure, where your child engages in a captivating array of stimulating activities. These experiences are thoughtfully designed to foster the development of young thinkers, negotiators and problem-solvers. As they immerse themselves in playful learning, they build self-confidence and resilience, unearthing the boundless

Nurturing hearts and minds

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we believe in shaping not only bright minds but also compassionate hearts. Our environment places immense value on the power of imagination, creativity and kindness. Every interaction is an opportunity to instil core values that will guide them on their journey through life.

Your child’s success is our joy

Our qualified staff wholeheartedly invest in your child’s growth. Staff feel it is a privilege to care for and educate our little learners. We do not take the responsibility lightly.

A unique identity within a vibrant community

As part of Ashville College, Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep enjoys a unique identity while being enriched by the wealth of facilities and support available within the College. This connection ensures that every child receives the best of both worlds - a space tailored to their needs and the benefits of being part of a vibrant, inclusive community.

Your child’s journey begins here

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we believe that every child holds within them the potential to thrive. We invite you to entrust your child’s early years to us and we will provide them with a wealth of learning opportunities with care and compassion.

EXCITED WE ARE

I really like that Little Acorns, Acorns and Reception are all in one unit but also close to Year 1 and Year 2. Everything links together nicely and there are strong connections and a natural flow to the rest of the school.

Mrs Vicki van Zeller, Reception Class Teacher

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN…

Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep is where children are introduced to school life. It is made up of our pre-school classes, Little Acorns and Acorns, and our two-form Reception class.

All Pre-Prep children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Relaunched in 2021, our facility was carefully planned to provide a warm, vibrant and secure environment where our youngest children can develop, and a smooth transition as they take that first step into ‘big school’.

LITTLE ACORNS

Ages: 2-3

In a nutshell:

The Little Acorns cabin provides a warm, fun, safe, and comfortable play space for them to go from your caring arms to ours. Staff really get to know each child, what they like and what they can do. Positive relationships are built that help children become strong, independent learners. The children enjoy a large outdoor, free-flow play area with opportunities for physical development and for experiencing the natural world.

See them thrive:

Commenting, echoing, using new vocabulary, and reading are just a few of the many ways language is introduced, extended and developed.

When they are three, Little Acorns become ‘big Acorns’, moving from the cabin to the Acorns classroom. This takes place in September or January depending on if they are ready, with parents consulted throughout. Transition visits start in the Summer term across EYFS.

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN…

ACORNS

Ages: 3-4

In a nutshell:

Acorns occupy a light, airy classroom, with access to extensive outdoor play spaces. All areas are richly resourced and especially designed for learning through play. Acorns children develop enquiry-based learning skills, begin to learn comprehension as staff talk to them about the world around them, and become more aware of the relationships they make with other children as their language develops. There are frequent opportunities for pre-reading and writing skills throughout the play areas.

See them thrive:

Children’s individual aptitudes and skills determine how staff plan for their individual learning and next steps.

Acorns children meet Reception teachers throughout the year and get more opportunities to socialise with Reception children in the Summer term.

RECEPTION

Ages: 4-5

In a nutshell:

All children have a smooth transition to Reception class. They follow a well-planned timetable of lessons in one of two bright, spacious, well-resourced classrooms with free flow to a lovely garden play area. Provision remains play-based, and teachers follow the children’s interests through topic-based learning. This makes learning, whether it’s about bees or oceans, exciting and meaningful for the children.

See them thrive:

Children become more confident communicators and begin to read and write and develop secure mathematical skills in readiness for Year 1. They continue to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world, as well as their social and emotional skills.

Reception pupils take part in a ‘Moving Up Day’ in June to meet their Year 1 teachers and experience life in Year 1, which is situated just down the corridor!

THRIVING WE ARE

ENTRUST THEM TO OUR CARE…

Research has found that the best investment for future health and happiness is in the first five years of life. Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep wants to be part of that investment for your child, by providing them with a caring and safe environment and fun, nurturing and challenging opportunities, while supporting you as a parent.

We understand joining an early years setting, particularly for the very first time, is exciting but can be daunting, so we work with every child and family to make that transition as smooth as possible. For children who find settling into their new environment a bit more challenging, our experienced staff will work closely with the child and their parents to provide support and boost confidence.

We have genuine appreciation for parents as the first and most enduring educators. Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep is the perfect place for children to take those first steps on their educational journey, where the magic of playing and learning can continue from your hands to ours, from home to school. This makes a positive parent partnership vital to learning and development.

WE

ARE

YOUNG MINDS GROW…

OUR EARLY YEARS CURRICULUM

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, children may not realise it amidst their joyful play and explo ration, but the seeds of future academic, social, emotional, and personal triumph are being sown. Our vibrant environment is a playground for learning, where the journey to success

We strive to cultivate the qualities that define exceptional individuals and compassionate learners. We encourage children to face challenges. Through perseverance and resilience, children develop self-confidence and emotional maturity. Through our forest school we teach children to develop a love and respect for the natural world and environment which we hope fosters a lifelong compassion for nature.

OUR EARLY YEARS CURRICULUM (CONTINUED)

Choose a holistic approach to lifelong learning

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we embrace a comprehensive approach to education, nurturing every aspect of your child’s development. Our curriculum, aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), encompasses seven key areas of learning, building a solid foundation for future academic and personal success.

Fostering growth in Prime and Specific Areas

The Prime Areas - Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social, and Emotional Development - lay the groundwork for your child’s journey. As they grow, these fundamental skills intertwine with Specific Areas - Literacy, Maths, Understanding the World, and Expressive Art and Design - empowering them to explore the world with confidence and curiosity.

Tailored excellence in Maths and English

Beyond the EYFS curriculum, our Reception children follow the White Rose Maths and Write Stuff English curricula, ensuring your child receives expert guidance in these essential subjects.

Nurturing individual potential

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, every child’s unique aptitudes, knowledge, and skills form the compass of their learning journey. Our experienced practitioners offer personalised support, enabling each child to flourish and thrive at their own pace.

Enriched by subject specialists

As an integral part of our all-through school, your child gains access to an array of subject specialists. From Music to Performing Arts, Spanish to Physical Education, these passionate teachers enrich the learning experience, broadening your child’s horizons and igniting new passions.

Exploring a world of co-curricular delights

As Reception children take flight, they gain access to an exciting range of co-curricular activities. Whether it’s swimming during the day or engaging in ballet, Suzuki Violin, and yoga during lunchtime or after school, we encourage a holistic approach to development, celebrating each child’s unique interests.

Nature’s classroom

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we cherish the immeasurable benefits of outdoor learning. Our expansive grounds serve as a canvas for exploration, where forest school-trained and outdoor education experts lead children in immersive experiences, fostering new skills and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Embark on a journey of growth

At Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep, we celebrate the multifaceted growth of young minds. Our holistic approach ensures that your child thrives academically, emotionally and creatively. As they embrace the wonders of learning both within the classroom and amidst nature’s embrace, they embark on a journey that will shape their future as well-rounded, compassionate and confident individuals.

I just love learning. About everything! Maisie, Reception

WE ARE

...AND TAKE THE NEXT STEP.

Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep is the first of four schools that make up Ashville College.

You will find Ashville a warm and welcoming place where the people have one shared goal – the happiness and education of all the children in our care.

If you are considering a longer-term future for your family, you should know every pupil throughout the school, whether they’re in Little Acorns or Sixth Form, is known, nurtured, supported to become the best version of themselves, and encouraged to follow their passions, wherever they may lie.

As a College we can offer your child:

• Seamless transition between key age groups and small class sizes

• Boundless opportunities through our Co-Curricular Programme

• A warm, positive and supportive community

• The expertise of specialist teachers from across the school

• Continuity as children get to know places and people

• Social opportunities between age groups

• A sense of aspiration and responsibility for the very young, who want to be just like the ‘big boys and girls’

When your child joins Ashville, you join Ashville too. You will receive personal support from staff as your child progresses, and a warm welcome from our parents’ association, the New Friends of Ashville (NFoA). The NFoA is strong and supportive group that provides an invaluable link between parents and school and organises fun events and activities throughout the year.

ASHVILLE ACORNS PRE-PREP

PREP SCHOOL

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

The details make the difference when you’re choosing a school for your child, especially if it’s their first ever setting.

As a first step, we would recommend you come and see us, get a feel for our facilities, and chat to the people who will care for and teach your child. The first visit is as much for your child as it is for you, so we make sure it is child-friendly and interactive. To arrange a visit, contact +44 (0)1423 724863 or . We look forward to meeting

Dates for your diary (2023-24)

Ashville Acorns Pre-Prep and Prep School

Joining Little Acorns or Acorns

Children can join Little Acorns as soon as they turn two. We accept applications for new joiners throughout the year.

Session times (term-time only)

• 8.45am to 11.45am (morning)

• 11.45am to 12.45pm (lunch)

• 12.45pm to 3.45pm (afternoon)

• After school care club is available up to 6.00pm. If needed, we allow early drop-off from 8.30am, with no additional charge.

Minimum termly sessions

• Two-year-olds - three sessions (lunch optional)

• Three-year-olds - five morning sessions plus lunch each day

• Four-year-olds (pre-Reception age) - five morning sessions plus lunch each day, and two afternoon sessions

We understand every family’s needs are different, so we try to offer as much flexibility as possible for the sessions booked.

WE ARE ASHVILLE

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Joining Reception class

Children start Reception class in the September after their fourth birthday.

The Reception school day runs from 8.30am to 3.45pm, with after-school care club available up to 6.00pm and co-curricular and sports activities running up to 5.15pm. Free playground drop-off is available from 8.00am.

We are now inviting applications for September 2024 and aim to make the process of applying to Ashville as smooth as possible.

How to find out more

More information, including on fees and our quality wraparound care service, can be found on our website.

Scan the QR code or visit www.ashville.co.uk/admissions

You can also direct queries to the Head of Ashville Acorns

Pre-Prep, Mrs Charlotte Cryer, via c.cryer@ashville.co.uk