Welcome to Nursery Twigs
Introduction
Starting school is an exciting journey for both children and their families. At Hoe Bridge School, we are delighted to share this important chapter with you. This handbook has been created to provide a clear and detailed overview of everything that takes place during your child's year in Nursery Twigs. From our rich and engaging curriculum to key milestones in both personal and academic development, celebrations of achievement, assemblies, special events and daily routines, this guide will help you understand what your child will experience, learn and enjoy throughout the year. Our aim is to support you in becoming fully involved in your child's learning journey and to help you feel confident and well informed every step of the way.
Acronyms Explained
• EYFS – Early Years Foundation Stage
• ELG – Early Learning Goal
• DSL – Designated Safeguarding Lead
• PSED – Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• C&L – Communication & Language
• SEND – Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
1. STAFFING
Head of Pre-Prep
Ms Amanda Willis is the Head of Pre-Prep and is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the Pre-Prep department, which includes Twigs (aged 2–3), Acorns (aged 3–4) and Nursery Twigs. She works closely with all staff to ensure that every child benefits from a nurturing, stimulating and supportive learning environment. Ms Willis reports to the Senior Leadership Team and plays a key role in shaping the vision and ethos of both Early Years and Key Stage 1.
Assistant Head Early Years
Mrs Kealey Taylor is the Assistant Head of Early Years and the EYFS Deputy Safeguarding Lead. She is responsible for the Early Years Foundation Stage, which includes Twigs, Acorns and Nursery Twigs classes, and leads the Early Years curriculum tailored to children aged 2 to 5. Mrs Taylor also oversees Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision for Early Years, working closely with Stef Davies, the school SENCo, to ensure that every child’s individual needs are met. She supports the pastoral care and wellbeing of the youngest children and works in partnership with Amanda Willis to maintain consistency and excellence across the department.
Assistant Head Key Stage 1
Mrs Kelly Daffue is the Assistant Head of Key Stage 1 and leads the academic and pastoral development of Year 1 and Year 2. She plays a key role in supporting a smooth and successful transition from Nursery Twigs into Key Stage 1. In addition to her responsibilities for Key Stage 1,
Mrs Daffue also oversees academic care across the entire Pre-Prep. She works closely with class teachers to monitor progress, uphold high standards of teaching and learning, and ensure that each child is appropriately challenged and supported.
• The Environment - Our Nursery Twigs setting is a warm caring and enriching environment based primarily in The Den which accommodates up to 18 children aged 2 to 3 years. In addition to The Den children also use The Pavilion an additional indoor space and the outdoor garden area for their play and learning. Having access to these two indoor rooms plus outdoor space allows for a varied and flexible learning environment that supports exploration and development.
• Staffing Ratios: Within these spaces we operate with staffing ratios aligned to government guidelines 1:5 for children aged two and 1:8 for children aged three. Thanks to our dedicated team we often work at lower ratios to provide more individualised care and support.
• Key Workers and Support Staff - There are three specialist Early Years key workers and one teacher who works one day a week, supported by one Early Years teaching assistant. Together they support the children closely across these areas, ensuring consistency and personalised attention.
• Specialist Subject Teachers: Weekly sessions in Music Musical Theatre and Sport are led by specialist teachers. Our key workers remain actively involved during these lessons to reinforce learning and provide continuity.
• Additional Support and Enrichment: Throughout the year, we welcome parents professionals and guest speakers who bring new skills and perspectives enriching the children’s experiences and sparking curiosity.
Key Person
The Key Person Approach in Nursery Twigs
In Nursery Twigs, every child is assigned a Key Person - a central figure in supporting their emotional well-being and development. Initially, the room leader takes on this role during the child’s settling-in period. As staff begin to understand the children’s individual needs, interests and attachments during the first two weeks, each child is then thoughtfully allocated to a Key Person within the Nursery Twigs team.
• This approach allows us to create smaller, more intimate key groups, strengthening the sense of security and connection for each child. The Key Person is responsible for:
• Ensuring learning and care are tailored to the child’s individual needs
• Helping the child feel safe, confident and settled in the nursery environment
• Providing a consistent and nurturing relationship
• Working in close partnership with families to support learning and development at home
• Identifying and signposting any additional or specialist support where needed
Although each child has a designated Key Person, all staff in Nursery Twigs work closely together, forming a collaborative and caring team around every child.
2. SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENTS, ASSEMBLIES AND AWARDS
At Hoe Bridge, we celebrate effort and progress, helping children feel valued in the school community. Nursery Twigs children participate in assemblies and awards when they are ready and ageappropriate.
• Assemblies
• Mini Assemblies: Initially, Nursery Twigs children enjoy short, small-group sessions focused on learning to sit, listen, and engage for brief periods.
• Values-Based Assembly: When ready, children join the whole-school assembly led by Ms Willis, our Head of Pre-Prep, which focuses on core values like honesty and kindness.
• Story Time with Ms Willis: Each week, Ms Willis reads an immersive story, bringing it to life while celebrating the children’s learning and achievements from that week.
• Class Assemblies: During the Spring Term and beyond, children begin to watch assemblies led by older classes, such as Reception, helping them gradually become familiar with the wider school community.
• Enrichment Assemblies: Special guests and themed events broaden children’s experiences as they become ready to engage.
• Christmas by Candlelight: Instead of a traditional nativity, Nursery Twigs join their families for a cozy Christmas experience featuring singing, music, light acting, and festive fun such as the “12 Days of Christmas” themed activities to celebrate the season together.
Awards
• Stickers: Given throughout the day by teachers to recognise individual progress, effort, and positive behaviour.
• Headteacher’s Awards: Ms Willis presents special awards weekly to celebrate exceptional effort and achievements, encouraging children to keep striving.
• Positive Praise: Staff regularly offer verbal encouragement and praise to support children’s confidence and motivation.
Pupil Voice
At Hoe Bridge, we believe it’s never too early to nurture children’s confidence in sharing their thoughts and ideas. While Nursery Twigs children are not part of the School Council, their voices are welcomed and valued every day. They are encouraged to make choices, share opinions, and take part in group decisions during play and learning. For example, they help decide which toys and even the colours of those toys to order for the playground, helping them understand that their ideas matter and have an impact. These early experiences lay the foundation for respectful listening, confident speaking, and active participation in school life.
3. STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS
At Hoe Bridge, we follow The Hoe Bridge Way , a special set of values like kindness, honesty, respect, sharing, and listening. These help our youngest children learn how to care for themselves and their
friends in a safe, happy place. We know every child learns in their own way and at their own speed. Our expectations are high but gentle, always suited to little ones who are full of curiosity and feelings.
• Growing Together: We help each child be their best learning to play nicely, express their feelings, and try new things through fun activities, daily routines, and caring grown-ups.
• Personal Support: With small groups and lots of adults around, we can give each child the special help and attention they need to feel happy and learn well.
• Learning Through Play: Children explore and learn by playing with toys and friends. Our games and activities help them think, solve little problems, and build their words.
• Gentle Encouragement: We let children explore in their own way but are always nearby to support, encourage, and gently guide them when they’re ready.
• Talking and Sharing: We love to keep in touch with families. Your child’s key worker is always happy to chat, share ideas, and listen to how things are going at home.
• Working With Families: We know you know your child best. We work closely with you to help your little one grow, learn, and feel safe both at home and at nursery.
Before and After School Guidelines
Playground Equipment:
We kindly ask that playground equipment is not used before or after school.
Waiting Areas:
Please ensure that children stay in the designated waiting areas and avoid climbing on the fences.
4. NURSERY TWIGS CURRICULUM
At Hoe Bridge, our Nursery Acorns curriculum is rooted in the EarlyYearsFoundationStage(EYFS) framework, with a strong focus on the PrimeAreasof learning: Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development. These core areas are the foundation of all future learning and are at the heart of everything we do in our two-year-old provision.
We believe that excellence in early childhood education is achieved through a harmonious interplay of three essential elements: the child, the environment, and the facilitating adult. Each contributes uniquely to a rich and supportive learning experience.
1. The Child: A Unique Learner
Every child is recognised as a unique and capable individual. Our approach encourages exploration, supports emotional wellbeing, and celebrates the small but important milestones. Curiosity, wonder and joy are central to our ethos, helping children grow in confidence and independence.
2. The Facilitating Adult: Guiding Growth
Our team of experienced Early Years practitioners act as skilled facilitators of learning. By observing, listening and engaging with children at just the right moments, they extend thinking and support development with warmth and sensitivity. Families are valued partners in this process, and we work closely with parents to create a strong home-school connection.
3. The Environment: The Third Teacher
Inspired by the ReggioEmiliaapproach, we design our learning spaces to be calm, beautiful and engaging. Resources are open-ended, natural and thoughtfully presented, encouraging children to explore, collaborate and imagine. Our Acorns benefit from time across The Eden, our central classroom, The Pavilion, an additional calm and creative space, and their outdoor garden, used daily for fresh air, movement, and play. The variety of spaces supports varied experiences, small group time, and opportunities for children to follow their interests.
Discovery Time: Child-Led Learning in Nursery Acorns
Discovery Time is at the heart of our curriculum. It is a time when children are free to explore, investigate and play across a range of carefully planned areas. Adults observe closely, joining in play to model language, introduce new concepts, and gently stretch children’s thinking. Whether it’s water play, small-world storytelling, or outdoor digging, every moment is an opportunity for learning. Through play, children develop creativity, resilience and confidence.
Immersive and Flexible Learning
We provide rich, varied learning opportunities that respond to each child’s interests, stage of development and mood on the day. These include:
• Small group time for songs, story sessions, or sensory games
• Enriched continuous provision with engaging provocations and resources
• Outdoor learning that connects children with nature and their bodies
• Spontaneous moments when learning unfolds through play, discovery or conversation
Learning is fluid, joyful and always rooted in real life. Whether in routines, interactions or exploration, our approach ensures that children make meaningful progress in ways that feel natural and secure.
Teaching the Prime Areas in Nursery Acorns
Communication and Language
We immerse children in a rich language environment. Every interaction is seen as a learning opportunity whether it's singing nursery rhymes, sharing stories, or simply chatting during play. Adults model clear language, introduce new vocabulary, and support early conversations. Children are encouraged to listen, take turns in conversation, ask questions and express themselves using their growing vocabulary.
Physical Development
Children are supported to grow strong, coordinated and confident in their bodies. Indoors and outdoors, they are encouraged to climb, balance, run, and explore movement in playful ways. Fine motor activities like threading, scooping, painting and using playdough build control and coordination. Children are also supported with self-care routines such as washing hands, using cutlery and beginning to dress themselves with growing independence.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
A calm, loving and consistent environment helps our youngest children feel safe, valued and secure. We support them in building positive relationships, learning to share, take turns and express emotions. Through gentle guidance, children begin to recognise how to manage feelings and build friendships. They are also supported to make choices, grow in independence and take pride in their own achievements.
Academic Excellence Through Early Exposure
While the PrimeAreasremain our central focus in Nursery Acorns, we gently introduce children to early literacy and mathematics through playful, age-appropriate experiences.
Early Literacy Foundations
• Story Dough sessions build vocabulary, creativity and early mark-making through playdough and storytelling.
• Children explore mark-making using brushes, chalk, sand, crayons and paint across the provision.
• A core story each week is brought to life through play, small world, and role-play.
• Daily storytime fosters a love of books and language.
• Children visit the school library, enjoying shared reading and time to explore books.
• Language-rich routines and conversations support listening, speaking and imagination.
Early Maths Concepts
• Each week introduces a number and colour, explored through games, sorting, songs and sensory play.
• Maths is embedded in routines counting at snack, setting the table, comparing sizes, building towers.
• Nursery rhymes and action songs build early number sense and rhythm.
• Concepts like counting, pattern, and size are discovered through real-life and playful experiences.
Forest School
At Hoe Bridge, Nursery Twigs take part in regular Forest School sessions throughout the week in our woodland area. These sessions encourage children to develop confidence, independence, and
teamwork through activities like welly walks, climbing over natural obstacles, and exploring the outdoors. Forest School helps build physical skills, resilience, curiosity, and a love of nature, all in a safe and supportive environment. Please ensure your child has waterproofs and wellies each week as detailed in the kit list.
5. TECHNOLOGY IN NURSERY TWIGS
At Hoe Bridge, we understand that technology is a fun and important part of learning, even for our youngest children. In Nursery Twigs, children enjoy using iPads in simple, guided sessions where they learn basic skills like tapping, swiping, and dragging. They explore age-appropriate apps that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and early coding concepts in a playful way. The children also have exciting opportunities to try out things like robots, interactive stories, and safe virtual reality experiences, all carefully supervised to ensure they are fun and safe. We teach children about using technology kindly and safely, and offer workshops for parents to help families feel confident about screen time at home. Our approach follows the school’s Online Safety Policy, making sure technology is a positive part of early learning.
6. ENRICHMENT
At Hoe Bridge, we value immersive learning experiences that bring the curriculum to life. Throughout the year, we have whole-school or Pre-Prep immersive learning days that connect across year groups and phases.
Workshops, Visitors & Enrichment Days
These include a variety of special events such as International Day and Pet Day, where children explore different cultures or learn about animal care. Workshops feature author visits, musical sessions, and creative activities. Visitors range from theatre productions and emergency services to parent-led talks, enriching our community and curriculum.
School Trips
In Nursery Twigs, all exciting learning adventures take place on-site at school. We bring immersive experiences to the children, such as visits to Little City for role-play, Zoo Lab encounters with live animals, and special theatre productions—all designed to spark curiosity and wonder within their familiar surroundings. These enriching activities provide meaningful, hands-on learning without the need to leave the school premises. Details about upcoming events are shared via the termly calendar and Parent Zone emails.
7. ASSESSMENT IN NURSERY TWIGS
At Hoe Bridge, assessment in Nursery Twigs is informal and ongoing, tailored for the developmental needs of 2-year-olds.
• Two-Year Progress Checks: Between 2 years and 2 years 6 months, staff carry out informal progress checks focusing on the prime areas Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development. Parents are fully informed about these checks and play an important role by sharing insights and observations about their child’s development at home.
• Age and Stage Focus: We assess children based on their individual month bands, recognising that every child develops at their own pace. The focus is firmly on the prime areas, which form the foundation for future learning.
• Daily Observations: Staff observe children continuously during play and activities, noting progress and interests. These observations inform planning and ensure learning experiences are personalised.
• Regular Team and SMT Reviews: Staff meet regularly, including termly meetings with the Senior Management Team, to review each child’s development and ensure tailored support and progress.
• Partnership with Families: We value parents as partners. Through Tapestry, we share learning moments and warmly welcome your insights from home to help build a complete picture of your child’s development.
This informal and sensitive approach ensures every child is supported and encouraged to grow confidently in a way that suits their unique journey.
8. CATERING
Family Dining Lunch
Nursery Twigs children enjoy a nutritious, balanced hot lunch every day, served in the dining hall by our in-house catering team. Our dedicated catering staff are experienced in accommodating all dietary needs. Any specific dietary requirements must be submitted in writing to the school office. In Nursery Twigs, we follow a family dining model where key workers sit with the children. Pupils are encouraged to help set the table, practise good manners, and engage in conversation. Meals are served by staff, promoting a calm, social, and structured lunchtime experience. All allergies and dietary needs are carefully managed by our catering team.
A daily care diary is maintained for each child to track their eating habits and preferences, helping us ensure their wellbeing and communicate with parents effectively. See further information below.
Morning Snack & Milk
Morning snack is provided and typically includes fruit or vegetables. Children are encouraged to drink water throughout the day - please ensure your child brings a labelled water bottle each day. We provide cold milk daily, which is free for all children up to the age of five.
Please note that children are not permitted to bring any food from home, and Hoe Bridge is a nutfree school to protect those with allergies.
9. COMMUNICATION
At Hoe Bridge, we value strong communication with parents and consider them essential partners in the Hoe Bridge journey. We aim to keep you well-informed and involved in your child's learning experience.
Reports
Autumn Term Report
In the Autumn term, parents receive a report focusing on the prime areas (Communication and Language, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Physical Development). This report includes the child’s 2-year check, providing an in-depth overview of progress in these foundational areas, along with specific targets and suggested activities for home to support development.
Summer Term Report
The Summer term report offers a more detailed and comprehensive update on your child’s progress, still focused primarily on the prime areas. This report reflects the development your child has made throughout the year, giving a fuller picture of their learning journey.
Parent Zone
The Parent Zone serves as your central hub for all school communications. Here, you'll find:
• The termly timetable
• Autumn Term target reports
• Curriculum Overviews: Detailed outlines of what your child will be learning each term.
• Trip Information: Details about upcoming school trips and enrichment activities.
• Special Events: Information on assemblies, workshops, and other school events.
• Thursday Bulk Mail: important weekly information via email
• Bulletin: Every Friday summarising the weeks learning and achievements
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Tapestry
At Hoe Bridge, we use Tapestry to share and celebrate your child’s learning and daily experiences.
Care Diary
We use the Tapestry Care Diary to keep you informed daily about your child’s toileting, eating, and sleeping.
• Toileting: We support each child individually, following guidance from parents and encouraging toileting as soon as the child is ready.
• Sleep: Many children at this age still need naps. After lunch, children who require rest have a quiet, designated sleeping area. We will update you on how long your child sleeps and how they settle.
Ask Me About (Daily Talking Points)
Each day, we post 3 simple talking points designed to help parents engage their child in conversation about what they have done at Nursery Twigs. These prompts support children who may find it hard to remember or explain their day, making home-school communication easier and more meaningful.
Individual Celebrations
We highlight individual children’s personal progress and achievements regularly, showcasing special moments that reflect their unique learning journey.
Group Celebrations
Weekly, we share a group celebration moment to highlight collective activities or milestones, fostering a sense of community and shared success.
Weekly Overview
At the end of each week, we provide a summary of the key learning topics and experiences your child has engaged with, helping you stay connected with their development and explore ideas to support learning at home.
If you need support using Tapestry or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s class teacher.
Parent Contributions
CelebrationsofLearningatHome
Parents can share moments of their child's learning at home by uploading photos, videos, or notes to Tapestry. Whether it's a new skill they've mastered, a family outing, or a special event, these contributions enrich our understanding of the child's development.
BringingLearningtoSchool
We also encourage children to bring in items related to current topics of study. These could be books, artefacts, or projects that align with our curriculum themes. Please ensure that these items are relevant to the topic and avoid sending in general toys or teddies.
By sharing these experiences, both at home and in school, we create a richer, more connected learning environment for your child.
Open Door Policy
We welcome informal chats at the start or end of the day. Our open-door policy encourages ongoing communication, and we are happy to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
Meetings and Formal Communication
For more formal communication, meetings can be booked via the office. We are committed to maintaining transparent and responsive communication with all our families.
Termly Calendar
Each term, parents receive a Hoe Bridge calendar outlining key events, including trips, enrichment days, and assemblies. This helps families plan and stay engaged with school activities.
A weekly newsletter, written by Mr. Webster (Headmaster) and Ms. Willis (Head of Pre-Prep), is available on the school website and Parent Zone. It provides updates on school events, highlights from the week, and upcoming activities.
10. BEHAVIOUR IN NURSERY TWIGS
In Nursery Twigs, we prioritise developing social skills, self-regulation, and positive attitudes. Our approach centres on restorative practices, encouraging children to reflect, learn, and grow from their experiences.
The Hoe Bridge Way
Our core values - kindness, honesty, perseverance, and respect - are integral to our community. We model and celebrate these values daily, fostering a nurturing environment where children feel safe and valued.
Positive Praise
We reinforce positive choices through verbal praise, stickers, and whole-class incentives, recognising effort and good behaviour.
Growth Mindset
Children learn that mistakes are part of learning and are encouraged to persevere. We use the story TheColourMonstersto help children recognise and name their emotions, understand how they are feeling, and begin to manage these feelings in a supportive way.
Restorative Practices
When challenges arise, we engage children in calm, restorative conversations to reflect on their actions and understand their impact. This approach helps children develop empathy, accountability, and problem-solving skills. Rather than focusing on punishment, we guide children to make better choices and repair relationships, fostering a supportive and respectful community. manaeducation.co.uk+1education.sa.gov.au+1education.sa.gov.au+1arnoldhouse.co.uk+1
Parent Communication
We maintain open communication with parents, sharing both positive moments and any concerns. Collaboration between home and school is key to supporting behavioural development.
11. HOME LEARNING IN NURSERY TWIGS
At Hoe Bridge, we focus on supporting your child’s development in the Prime Areas: Communication and Language, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, and Physical Development. These are the foundations for all future learning.
• Reading Together: Your child will bring home a library book each week to share with you. Spending just a few minutes reading together daily helps build a love of stories and language. Reading simple picture books, pointing at pictures, and talking about what you see all support early language skills.
• Language and Communication: Talk with your child throughout the day about what you are doing.
• Listen carefully and give them time to respond.
• Sing nursery rhymes and simple songs to play with sounds and rhythm.
• Use everyday moments to name objects, describe actions, and tell simple stories.
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development:
• Encourage sharing, taking turns, and playing with others.
• Help your child understand and express their feelings with simple words.
• Use stories or picture books to talk about emotions and how to manage them.
• Praise small achievements to build confidence and a sense of belonging.
• Physical Development:
• Support active play such as running, climbing, jumping, and dancing to develop gross motor skills.
• Encourage fine motor skills with activities like drawing, using playdough, or simple threading.
• Practice self-help skills like washing hands, feeding themselves, and putting on shoes.
Each week, the Nursery Twigs overview will include simple activities and ideas to enjoy together at home that support these prime areas in fun and natural ways.
12. NURSERY TWIGS READINESS
Top 10 Tips for Supporting Your 2-Year-Old at Home
1. Encourage Independence
Help your child practise simple tasks like dressing themselves, washing hands, and trying to use the toilet with your support. Celebrate their efforts to do things on their own!
2. Support Toileting Skills
Follow your child’s own pace with toileting, encouraging them gently when they’re ready. Remember to wash hands after, and talk about it positively.
3. Build Language and Talking
Chat with your child throughout the day. Use clear words, sing songs, and read stories together to help them learn new words and express themselves.
4. Develop Social Skills
Encourage sharing, taking turns, and playing with others. Arrange simple playdates or family interactions to practise listening and talking with friends.
5. Explore Emotions
Help your child name feelings like happy, sad, or angry. Use books or toys to talk about emotions and show how to calm down when upset.
6. Encourage Physical Play
Support running, climbing, jumping, and dancing. Outdoor play helps them build strength, balance, and confidence.
7. Practice Fine Motor Skills
Give your child chances to play with playdough, draw with crayons, stack blocks, or help with simple chores like putting toys away.
8. Foster Curiosity
Answer your child’s questions and encourage them to try new things safely. Let them explore and make small choices to build confidence.
9. Create Calm Routines
Keep regular mealtimes, nap times, and bedtime to help your child feel secure. Follow their cues for rest many children still need naps at this age.
10. Make Home a Happy Place
Give lots of hugs, smiles, and praise. Feeling loved and safe at home helps your child enjoy learning and trying new things at nursery.
Incorporating these activities into everyday life creates a strong foundation for your child’s success and happiness at Nursery Twigs and beyond.
13. TRANSITION
Transition is an important part of your child’s early education journey. We aim to make it smooth, supportive, and reassuring so every child feels confident and comfortable, whether starting Nursery Twigs or moving on to Nursery Acorns.
1. Starting Nursery Twigs
All Nursery Twigs children have a home visit before starting, and we contact all previous nurseries to better understand your child’s needs. Settling-in sessions are offered throughout the year to help children get to know their class teachers and become familiar with the classroom and routines. Parents will be invited to complete an ‘All About Me’ form to share important information about their child. We also welcome all new families to our WelcometoNurseryTwigsEvening(date to be confirmed).
2. Moving from Nursery Twigs to Nursery Acorns
To prepare children for Nursery Acorns, Nursery Twigs children spend time with Nursery Acorns during shared story times, snack times, and outdoor play. They also visit the Nursery Acorns classrooms during the summer term. We organise Move-Up Days to familiarise children with their new environment and teachers, ensuring a confident and smooth transition.
14. PASTORAL
At Hoe Bridge, your child’s wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. We aim to provide a warm, nurturing, and safe environment where children feel secure, valued, and confident in themselves.