King’s Ely Acremont Nursery and Pre-Prep Nursery Information for Parents 2024-25
Introduction
Your child is about to start life at King’s Ely Nursery and for many children this may be their first experience of life away from home. You will naturally have questions about the routines they will experience in Nursery, and what will be required both of the children and of you as their parents. This information document is designed to provide answers to some of these questions and to give you day to day information which will help both you and your child to settle in easily. However, please contact the Nursery if you have any questions which have not been addressed here.
Within the caring environment of King’s Ely Nursery, children are taught to play together in a safe and secure setting where they are supported to foster their innate sense of curiosity. The values of co-operation and self-discipline are encouraged. Children learn what behaviour is appropriate and to appreciate and respect the feelings of others. Although expectations are high, the children learn in an atmosphere of adventure
and enjoyment as they work to become independent learners and in a way that is appropriate to their age.
It is our belief at King’s Ely Nursery that education works best if there is a real partnership between parents and the School. We are available to meet with parents during the working day, so please contact us should you have any concerns about your child. More than that, the contribution parents can make to their child’s education is crucial, so we would ask you to involve yourself as much as you are able.
We trust that your child’s experience at Nursery will be a wonderful start to the exciting journey of education, at King’s Ely.
Sections in the Nursery
Nursery 1 2-3 year olds
Nursery 2 3-4 year olds in their pre-school year
School Aims and Objectives
The Aims of King’s Ely
Energy, Courage, Integrity
In the context of a secure, stable yet dynamic environment, rooted in Christian values, King’s Ely aims:
1) To provide and maintain a culture of integrity and trust in which childhood and youth are honoured and people of all races, faiths and backgrounds feel valued and respected;
2) To promote self-knowledge and develop skills for life through an open-minded approach to education;
3) In every context, to provoke high expectation, strong self-esteem, and high achievement;
4) To meet individual needs, be they educational or pastoral and to allow each pupil to find a voice;
5) To cherish the heritage and history of our city and our school and to live the truths for which they stand;
6) To promote personal and social responsibility for self, the school, and for local and wider communities;
7) To seek and embrace the challenges and opportunities life presents, thereby enhancing personal development and leadership skills;
8) To foster creativity and independence of mind and incite a continuing love of learning.
The Objectives of King’s Ely Nursery
The Spirit of King’s
We believe that part of what makes our school a happy and rewarding place in which to learn and work are the manners and mindfulness we demonstrate in our relationships each day.
Our rules are simple and place kindness and consideration at the heart of what we do. At King’s Ely there is an acceptance that all of us are different, each of us shines at something and that we all need support in some shape or form at times.
At King’s Ely Nursery, we show our Spirit by:
• helping each other and showing kindness to all;
• not leaving people out or permitting any unkindness to go on;
• always trying our very best;
• showing respect for those with different experiences;
• valuing all members of our community equally;
• working hard in support of charities;
• making time for each other;
• behaving well and showing respect to each other and visitors;
• showing politeness and good manners at all times;
• greeting each other when we first arrive;
• speaking up if something is wrong;
• celebrating successes.
Contact Details
King’s Ely Acremont Nursery and Pre-Prep
King’s Ely Acremont’s address is (for Pre-Prep and Nursery): 28-30 Egremont Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB6 1AE
All general enquiries for Pre-Prep and Nursery should be directed to: Victoria Lever (Head’s Secretary) on 01353 660514 or VictoriaLever@kingsely.org
More specific enquiries can be directed to:
Head of King’s Ely Acremont: FayeFentonStone@kingsely.org
Head of Early Years: HeatherStrudwick@kingsely.org
King’s Ely Prep and Senior Schools
Address: Barton Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4DB
Head of Prep School: Simon Kibler – SimonKibler@kingsely.org
General enquiries at Prep School: Heidi Jackson on 01353 660934 or heidijackson@kingsely.org
Head of Senior School: Jonathan Shaw – JonathanShaw@kingsely.org
Vice Principal (Academic): Jane Thomas – JaneThomas@kingsely.org
General enquiries at Senior School: 01353 660500 or Reception@kingsely.org
Whole School
Principal: John Attwater
Main switchboard: 01353 660700 or Enquiries@kingsely.org
School website: www.kingsely.org
IT and database queries: Marc Hawes on 01353 660700 or MarcHawes@kingsely.org
Account queries: Fees@kingsely.org
Medical Centre: 01353 662225 or MedicalCentre@kingsely.org
Admissions: Nick Tappin on 01353 660707 or NickTappin@kingsely.org
External Agencies
Independent Schools Inspectorate: 020 7600 0100
Term Dates 2024-25
Michaelmas Term 2024
King’s Ely Acremont Term Begins and Nursery Opens 2nd September 2024
Fairstead House Term begins 2nd September 2024
Orientation Day for Pupils+ 2nd September 2024
All other King’s Ely pupils return to school 3rd September 2024
Exeat Weekend* 28th September & 29th September 2024
Mid-term holiday begins 18th October 2024
Mid-term holiday ends 4th November 2024
Exeat Weekend* 23rd & 24th November 2024
Term ends 13th December 2024
Nursery Closes 20th December 2024
Lent Term 2025
King’s Ely & Fairstead House Term begins 6th January 2025
Nursery Opens 6th January 2025
Mid-term holiday begins 14th February 2025
Mid-term holiday ends 24th February 2025
Term ends 28th March 2025
Nursery Remains Open 28th March 2025
Nursery closed on 18th April and 21st April 2025 for Easter
Nursery is closed for staff training on Tuesday 22nd April 2025
Summer Term 2025
King’s Ely & Fairstead House Term begins 23rd April 2025
Exeat Weekend* 3rd & 4th May 2025
May Day 5th May 2025
Mid-term holiday begins 23rd May 2025
Mid-term holiday ends 2nd June 2025
Term ends 3rd July 2025
Nursery Closes* 8th August 2025
All dates with an * are currently draft dates +Pupils’ Orientation Day
Orientation Day is for the following pupils:
• All new pupils joining King’s Ely Year 4 upwards;
• All pupils who will be in Year 7, Year 9, Year 11 (one year International programme) and Year 12;
• All School Prefects to assist Staff with Pupils’ Orientation Day.
Nursery Hours
Monday – Friday
Term time – 0800 to 1200 or 0800 to 1600-1615 or 0800 to 1745-1800
Full year – 0800 to 1600-1615 or 0800 to 1700-1715 or 0800 to 1745-1800
Sessions
For the benefit of your child and in order to develop a sense of belonging, we recommend that children joining us in Nursery 1 attend a minimum of two sessions per week, as children may find it difficult to settle and form friendships if there are several days between attendances.
Children in their pre-school year (Nursery 2) will ideally be registered for a minimum of three sessions per week.
We also recommend that these children attend some full days to prepare them for full time education in Reception.
Session forms are given out for you to indicate which sessions you require for the coming academic year. Requests for sessions are dependant on spaces being available. If you would like to increase your child’s sessions, mid year, please contact Kelly Langford (Nursery Administrator) who will advise on availability.
Please note that should you wish to reduce your child’s sessions, we ask for one term’s notice.
Settling In
Prior to your child’s start at Nursery, they will be invited to attend a series of settling in sessions. As all children are different, these can be tailored to meet the needs of your child to help support them with their transition into Nursery. Typically, we would invite you to stay with your child for an hour the first time they attend, providing you and your child with the opportunity to meet the staff team, and familiarise yourselves with the Nursery environment. Following on from this initial settling session, your child will be invited to attend a further two sessions, independently, without a parent present. These sessions will vary in length and will occur at differing times throughout the day. We aim to provide your child with several opportunities to experience the Nursery routine, in small, manageable sessions. If we feel your child will benefit from additional settling sessions or shorter sessions once they have started, we will discuss this with you prior to your child’s first day.
We kindly ask you to complete the ‘Getting to Know You’ and ‘Parents Voice’ booklets, in advance of your child’s first independent settling session. This provides the staff team with key information regarding your child which can help ensure the transition into Nursery is as smooth as possible.
For some children joining us from other settings, it is advantageous for a member of our Nursery team to visit, or make contact with the child in this setting prior to starting at King’s Ely. Please arrange this with Mrs Strudwick.
It is quite normal and natural for your child to have a few tears when they are first left at Nursery, particularly if they have not been left before. Please be reassured that all our Nursery staff are skilled at dealing with this, and it is often best for parents to say a quick goodbye at drop off time. We will always contact you if your child does not settle, but this is very rare.You are also able to phone or message the Nursery via Famly if you would like to check how your child is getting on during their first few sessions.
We send regular photographs during your child’s settle sessions, and first weeks with us. This is to reassure you, as parents that your child is settling well in our care.
Your child’s key person will arrange a consultation with you after the first few weeks to share how your child is settling in.
Toys
Unless it is your child’s focus week, we request that toys or resources from home are not brought into the Nursery setting.
Arrival at Nursery
Nursery opens at 08.00. Our drop off times are between 08.00 and 08.30 at Nursery gate or between 08.30 and 09.00 at walking gate. Children are greeted at the gate by a member of our staff team. Staff from each section are on hand / available to help children come in if they are feeling a little anxious. This is a chance to build on independence and to have a clear start to their day. Breakfast is available in Nursery until 08.30 for those who wish.
Mobile Telephones
In line with our Early Years Policy, the use of mobile telephones, or any other device that is capable of recording images, are strictly prohibited when on school premises.
Car parking
Please note that there is very limited car parking available at the school. For Nursery parents there are a few car parking spaces to the left hand side of the drive where you can park and take your child into Nursery. You are also able to use these spaces if you have a child in Nursery and also in Pre-Prep. If this is the case, parents tend to settle their child into Pre-Prep first and then walk around to Nursery.
Please note, there is a 2mph speed limit on the school driveway.
Cycling
If you are cycling into Nursery, please dismount before entering the school grounds and use the entrance access to the school, not the exit access (both of these are clearly marked). The cycle shed is located to the left hand side of the school, next to the side gate entrance. Please park your bicycle here and walk your child into Nursery through the side entrance gate.
‘Walking Gate’ – open from 08.30-09.00
If you are walking your child into Nursery, please use the ‘Walking Gate’ entrance to the left hand side of the main car entrance of the school grounds. Parents walking their children into Nursery should not enter the school premises via the main driveway entrance for their own safety. For safeguarding reasons, we ask that parents do not enter the Nursery building without a member of staff.
Pegs
Each child has a named peg in their cloakroom for their coat and school satchel (Spare clothing is kept in their satchel and sent home for washing when needed). Please order your school satchel from the school uniform suppliers, Schoolblazer.com. This bag will continue with your child as they move through King’s Ely Acremont.
We encourage our children to be responsible for their own possessions and ask them to put any treasures they have made to go home in their satchel, along with any uniform not being worn. Please check your child’s satchel regularly for art-work and letters at the end of each of their sessions and bring their satchel back in with them ready for their next creations.
All bags, as well as their contents, should be clearly marked with your child’s name. School Blazer offer this service for a fee.
Wellington boots should be kept in school all year round for use in the garden; these should be named and placed on the rack provided in the playground for Nursery 1 and 2.
Security
The safety and security of your children is of paramount importance. All gates into school are fitted with combination locks and the front door of school is locked at all times. Gates are padlocked at all times and parents are only admitted by a member of staff. All visitors wear badges for easy identification by staff and children.
Collection from Nursery
Children booked for the morning session only will be brought to the Nursery gate to meet the person collecting them at 12.00. We also operate staggered collection times, to fit in with your routines and collection times at Acremont. Pickup times throughout the Nursery are as follows: 1600-1615 or 1700-1715 or 1745-1800
We ask that parents give us an indication of when they intend to pick up via Family, so we can plan activities accordingly. We ask that any ad-hoc changes in routine be passed on to the staff team at the start of the day to ensure your child is ready to go home at the correct time. We encourage parents to arrive promptly at the start of the 15 minutes collection windows if they would like to receive a detailed handover. Parents who arrive at the end of the 15 minutes will not receive a handover.
Please note that all sections of the Nursery shut at 18.00 promptly. Handovers will not be available after this time and charges for late collections will be applied. Please see the website for charges.
Please advise us of who will usually be picking up your child. If there is a change to this, please let the staff know when you drop off, or inform the Nursery by telephone or email. If possible, it is advisable to bring in the person collecting your child in advance, to meet the staff and to become familiar with the collection routine. If this is not possible, then please provide them and us with a ‘password’ that they are able to tell us when collecting. Please note that we will not allow any child to go home with another adult unless we have been informed of this in advance.
Please be considerate to our neighbours at all times and note that parking at the Church opposite is for members of the congregation only.
The School Day
The children have a full and varied day in the Nursery, with lots of exciting invitations to learn. These are planned with the children’s interests at the forefront of our minds. Specific timetables for your section of the Nursery will be provided in your ‘Welcome’ pack, covering such things as meal times and nap times.
Group times
Group times are held every day in Nursery 1 and 2. We are always interested to hear about the children’s achievements outside school and invite children to bring in any cups, certificates or medals so we can share these successes in assembly times. The school chaplain leads an assembly once a week for Nursery.
Breakfast
A healthy breakfast is available between 0800 and 0830 each morning which the children can access independently. Please do let us know at drop off if you would specifically like your child to have breakfast.
Snacks
The children can choose between a drink of milk or water and are given a piece of fruit/vegetable with a different carbohydrate option each morning.
Fruit is available throughout the day upon request.
Parents do not need to provide any snacks for their children and for allergen reasons, no food should be brought into Nursery to be consumed on site. An exception to this is a birthday cake, which needs to be shop bought and free of nuts.
Lunch
Lunches are cooked on the premises and served in the Nursery 1 rooms or the school hall. Staff sit at the table with the children to model table manners and encourage the correct use of cutlery. Social skills are promoted at this time, in addition to gentle encouragement to try new foods and eat a healthy, sustaining lunch. A vegetarian option is always available, and pasta is on offer if the hot option is really not to your child’s liking. Menus are available on the school website and the Parents’ Notice Board. Please advise us of any intolerance your child may have, or of any parental preferences, and ensure this information is kept up to date.
Tea
A light tea is served after 16.00 for children booked for the full day option, such as sandwiches, fruit and veg sticks.
Water
Water is always available for the children throughout the day. Children are encouraged to pour their own drinks independently at snack and meal times.
Water bottles go home daily and should be washed and re-filled with fresh water at home.
Please note: we do not permit fruit juices or flavoured water/fruit squash at Nursery.
Children are closely supervised at all times when eating.
Lost Property
Lost property is kept in the Nursery. Parents can email their child’s key person regarding any items that your child may have mislaid. Please ensure that all items of
uniform are clearly named as invariably named items find their way back to their owners much more quickly.
The Nursery Curriculum
We carefully consider each child in our care in terms of their needs, interests and stage of development, and use this information to plan a challenging and enjoyable experience across all the areas of learning and development. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The curriculum focuses on three prime areas of learning:
• personal, social and emotional development,
• communication and language,
• physical development, and four specific areas of learning:
• literacy,
• mathematics,
• understanding the world,
• expressive arts and design.
More information about the EYFS Curriculum can be found at www.foundationyears.org.uk and Parents’ Guides (‘What to expect when?’) are available in the Nursery for you to take home.
We have strong regard to support children to build resilience, enhance their curiosity and start to become reflective learners.
In addition, Nursery 1 and 2 children have themed sessions covering art, physical development, cookery, and science and nature to name but a few. These activities are designed to widen our curriculum and give the children a greater range of experiences.
Each term your child will be ‘focus child’ for a week. Prior to this week a document will be sent home to be completed by you. This enables us to have a
more holistic view of your child and plan for their development accordingly. At the end of the week your child’s key person will arrange a consultation to discuss all the learning your child has engaged in. This approach underpins our ethos of child led development and strong parent partnerships. This enables us to tailor each child’s learning to best suit their needs and current interests, helping them to achieve individual and meaningful goals.
Specialist teachers lead sessions in Nursery 1 and 2. This can be regular Music, French and PE sessions or one off events that follow the children’s interests, such as visits from the Fire Station or Community Nurse.
If you feel you can contribute towards the curriculum in any way we would be delighted to hear from you, e.g. talking about a festival you celebrate, demonstrating a musical instrument or lending an unusual item for an ‘Around the World’ enquiry.
Mrs Lucy Holden is our Deputy Head of Early Years who oversees the curriculum across all sections of the Nursery with Heather Strudwick as Head of Early Years.
We have a highly qualified staff team including our Senior Practitioners, who have additional qualifications in EAL (English as an Additional Language), ENCO (Equalities Named Coordinator) and Speech & Language.
Early in the Michaelmas Term parents are invited to a ‘Curriculum Evening’, when your child’s teachers will explain how your child is being taught and the areas covered over the course of the year. As the curriculum is always evolving, it is important to attend these evenings.
Diverse Cultures
We like to celebrate the cultures represented in the Nursery and encourage families to participate in this through culture days and similar events. We also have many resources and approaches to support those children with English as an additional language (EAL).
We introduce the children to major Christian festivals and other appropriate festivals throughout the year. We help children to become aware of festivals from other cultures, especially those cultures represented within the Nursery. If, as a parent, you are able to contribute to our work on festivals from any world religion, we would be delighted to hear from you.
We help the children to celebrate their own birthdays. Many children like to bring in a cake or some biscuits for their group on the day; this is very welcome, however treats need to be shop bought, nut free and in original packaging.
Garden Day
Throughout the year, one day a week is set aside as a Garden Day. On these days, weather permitting, the main activity sessions are spent in the school garden. We have a vegetable plot where we grow our own flowers and vegetables. We also have an environmental area with a secure pond habitat, which we maintain and equip to attract wildlife including birds, frogs and mini-beasts. There is a large secure area in which the children can play.
Children should wear their navy tracksuit on Garden Days and will change into their wellington boots and waterproof clothing if necessary (available from
Schoolblazer.com), when we go outside. During the warmer months, children can wear the PE kit (white polo t-shirts and school branded shorts). Children are very welcome to bring in a child-sized wheelbarrow on Garden Days.
Please ensure your child has eight-hour sun cream applied before attending Nursery.
Dates for Garden Days can be found in the Almanack or on the Parents’ Notice Board.
Trips and Visits
We organise several age appropriate Nursery visits during the academic year. These are designed to help the children develop skills and knowledge in relation to topics being studied, acquire a basic understanding of our traditions, of the natural world and of the importance of other cultures. We enjoy regular walks into Ely, exploring the Cathedral, the Riverside, and places like Ely Museum and Ely Library. We will inform you in advance of every visit and you will be required to give your permission for your child to attend.
Home Learning
We provide relevant home learning to support our children and families.
We have a number of learning resources including books and story bags that may be borrowed for use at home.
We also have a lending library for parents, where you can borrow books giving advice on topics such as eating, sleeping and toilet training.
Community Wellbeing Team/External Agencies/ Learning Support
At King’s Ely, our Community Wellbeing Team work across all areas of the school with the aim of offering support to pupils, parents and members of staff.
If you or one of your child’s teachers refers your child to see a member of the team, they are being offered therapeutic play, which aims to help their personal, educational and social needs.
The sessions are confidential unless your child is at risk for any reason, in which case the school policy for child protection and safeguarding will be followed. A team member will meet with you prior to commencing sessions.
Please contact Mrs Rebecca Menzies (Learning Support Co-ordinator) if you have any concerns regarding your child’s development.
Behaviour
Positive Behaviour
At King’s Ely Nursery we believe that every child has the right to expect to be cared for, and to learn, in a supportive and safe environment. Every child has the right to feel liked and valued. We believe strongly in developing each child’s self-esteem, through a positive approach to the development of interpersonal skills, and through having a high expectation of behaviour. Kindness and consideration are central to our ethos and to our expectations. At King’s Ely Nursery, positive behaviour is publicly recognised, and rewarded at every opportunity. Good manners, courtesy and consideration are of great importance and children are taught and reminded of these values in ‘circle times’ and daily assemblies.
During your child’s focus week it is a time to celebrate and acknowledge any individual achievement. These can be shared in our group times and are valued as part of a continuity between home and school.
Bullying
Bullying can be defined as repeated unwelcomed, detrimental and unwarranted behaviour and is not tolerated in school. Should any incidents be reported, strategies would be put into place in class and in assemblies to tackle this (the Behaviour Policy is available on the school website).
Safeguarding (including Child Protection)
‘Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children’ is defined as:
• Protecting children from maltreatment;
• Preventing impairment of children’s health or development;
• Ensuring children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care;
• Taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.
Child protection is a part of safeguarding and promoting welfare. It refers to the activity that is undertaken to protect children who are suffering, or are likely to suffer, significant harm, including radicalisation, child sexual exploitation or female genital mutilation. The school policy sets out how the governing body discharges its statutory responsibilities relating to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children who are pupils at King’s Ely and applies to all staff (paid or unpaid), pupils (boarding pupils, day pupils and those in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), parents, guardians and governors.
For more information please see the policy on the School Website: Safeguarding Policy (including Child Protection).
King’s Ely Designated Safeguarding Officers
Charlie Fisher, Deputy Head of Senior (Designated Safeguarding Lead)
01353 660591
Extension 3591
CharlieFisher@kingsely.org
John Attwater, Principal 01353 660701
Extension 3701
principal@kingsely.org
Faye Fenton-Stone, Head of Acremont 01353 660515
Extension 3515
FayeFentonStone@kingsely.org
Lucy Holden, Deputy Head of Early Years/EAL 01353 660518
Extension 3518
LucyHolden@kingsely.org
Harriet Gervasio, Deputy Head of Acremont 01353 660519
Ext 3519
HarrietGervasio@kingsely.org
Heather Strudwick, Head of Early Years and Reception Class Teacher 01353 660517
Extension 3517
HeatherStrudwick@kingsely.org
Lisa Brackley, Wellbeing Lead 01353 660728
Extension 3728
LisaBrackley@kingsely.org
Communicating with Parents
Reporting takes place in the following ways:
Key Person
Although all staff in the Nursery build supportive relationships with all the children and their families, each child will have a named key person, who keeps records on your child’s development and progress and helps to identify their next steps. They will always be happy to discuss any concern or query you may have. For short discussions, this can be at drop off or pick up times. For longer discussions, please make an appointment with them or with Mrs Strudwick.
Two Year Old Progress Check
Children in our Nursery 1 section are required to have a progress check completed by their key person before their third birthday. This will be shared with parents, and also with the child’s health visitor if permission is given.
Written Reports are sent out at the end of the Summer Term.
Observations
The Nursery uses an electronic system of recording observations. This enables you to access information such as photos and videos online regarding your child’s progress and achievements, and provides a snapshot of what they have been doing during the day. A login will be provided before your child’s first independent settle session.
Parents’ Notice Boards
The Parents’ Notice Board is currently at the entrance to Nursery. This displays a range of information that you may find useful. If there is a children’s event that you are involved in and you would like to advertise, please speak to Mrs Strudwick or Mrs Holden. Copies of information, such as the Early Years Curriculum, are available to borrow.
‘At Homes’
These are casual coffee mornings, giving you a chance to meet other parents in your child’s year group and provide an opportunity for parents to chat to Faye Fenton-Stone and Heather Strudwick. The dates for these are in the Almanack and, again, reminders are given in the weekly newsletter, including times and zoom links if you prefer to attend virtually.
The importance of our school’s electronic communication system, Kingspost, cannot be over emphasised. We try to send these messages Tuesdays and Fridays; however, should a club have to be cancelled or a last minute trip planned, we would advise you in this way.
Parents’ Evening
Once per term you are invited to attend a parents’ evening with your child’s key person. These appointments are 10 minutes and online.
Handovers
At the end of your child’s session, you will receive a handover with a member of staff outlining your child’s learning from the day. They will be available to ask questions and talk about how your child’s day has been.
Focus Child Week
Your child will have one focus week per term. You are invited to visit the Nursery each session between 08.00 and 09.00. You will have the opportunity to complete a parental form prior to you child’s focus week, where you will be able to outline any learning at home and share with us your child’s current interests. At the end of your child’s focus week you are invited to attend a 30 minute consultation to discuss your child’s learning and development.
An Almanack of events for the term is distributed at the beginning of each term, giving you essential information about the term’s events and activities, as well as future holiday dates. We recommend that you go through this carefully, highlighting the relevant items for King’s Ely Nursery (KEAN).
Weekly newsletters are sent electronically on a Friday evening informing you of future events and arrangements, as well as highlights of the children’s learning for the week. It is very important that you read these newsletters, as most of our communications are conveyed in this way.
The Curriculum Evening, in the Michaelmas Term, is an opportunity to find out about how the Curriculum is covered in the year and also the routines and expectations of the Nursery. This information is also given out to new starters during the year.
Email
Practitioners check their emails at the beginning and end of the day. Please be aware that emails are unlikely to be responded to in the daytime; however, we aim to respond to all emails within 24 hours. Email addresses are at the back of this booklet. If you need a quicker response please contact Mrs Strudwick or Mrs Langford.
The school website www.kingsely.org is frequently updated, and you will find school policies on the site.
Change of personal circumstances
Parents should notify the Nursery of any change in personal circumstances, to add or amend email addresses, telephone numbers or emergency contact numbers.
This also includes full details of your new address if you are moving house
Transition
At King’s Ely Nursery we work hard to ensure that your child’s transition to the next stage of their education is as smooth as possible. There will be opportunities for children in Nursery 1 to spend time in Nursery 2 in the weeks preceding their move in September.
There is a natural progression from the Nursery into the Reception classes of King’s Ely Acremont, although entry into the Reception classes cannot be guaranteed.
Throughout the school year the Nursery children are invited to join with Pre-Prep for various events, assemblies and services. There is constant liaison between the Nursery staff and the Reception teachers. During the Summer Term, those children who will be moving to Pre-Prep will be able to spend time in the Reception class rooms with the Reception staff, getting to know their new teachers and surroundings. Events to support smooth transitions include workshops, story times, sharing playtimes in the garden and a Teddy Bears Picnic.
If your child will be moving to another school, we will liaise with their Reception teachers to pass on information and make the transition as easy as possible. Staff members from the new school are welcome to visit your child in the Nursery.
Other initiatives in planning
FoKSE
The Friends of King’s Ely (FoKSE) is an association embracing all those with an interest in the school who wish it well – former and current parents, staff and pupils, and anyone who would like to support our aims. FoKSE was started in January 2006 with the aim of enhancing the educational experience of King’s Ely pupils by harnessing the resources of our membership.
FoKSE activities include:
• supporting new parents via a parental network;
• celebrating pupils’ charitable efforts through the FoKSE awards;
• supporting the school with various initiatives including pupil career development;
• arranging the very popular Historic Buildings tours to which we invite local groups.
The committee organises many events where friends can meet and enjoy each other’s company and promote good community relations between the school and its neighbours.
They offer support to new parents via a strong network of parent representatives. FoKSE contact new parents prior to their children starting King’s Ely to welcome and advise them so that they settle into the King’s Ely community with ease. A representative from Acremont, Prep School or Senior School should be in touch with you prior to your child starting at King’s Ely to answer any questions you may have.
For your FoKSE representative details please contact FoKSE@kingsely.org
Health
In cases of illness, please ensure that your child remains at home until they are completely recovered, as infections are easily spread in school. In cases of diarrhoea or sickness, when accompanied by a high temperature and/or repeated, this must be 48 hours after cessation before your child returns to school. The school medical staff have stressed the importance of keeping the school updated with any relevant information relating to your child’s health. This is particularly important with regard to infectious diseases, immunisation, vaccinations and lengthy medical or dental treatments, especially if any of these have occurred during the holidays.
Medicine Policy
Staff members are not normally permitted to administer non-prescription medicines. Exceptions to this are asthma inhalers and emergency anti-allergy treatments provided by the parents. These may be administered by trained staff members only. Medicines are named and stored in a locked medicine cupboard out of reach of the children. A medicine permission form must be completed and signed. If you feel your child needs Calpol or equivalent before their session, we kindly ask that they remain at home (except if prescribed for an injury).
Please see our website for full medical details and policies.
Accidents
Unfortunately, accidents can happen both at Nursery and at home. If your child has an accident whilst in our care, we will complete an accident form via Famly, which will notify you immediately. If we believe they require further treatment, we will advise you straight away. If your child has suffered an accident at home, which has required first aid or left a mark, please inform the room staff. You will be asked to fill in an existing injury form at the start of the day.
Sun cream
When the weather dictates, please apply a long lasting sun cream (such as a 10 hour one) before school. Uniform sun hats should be kept at the Nursery.
Absence from Nursery
Should your child be unable to attend Nursery please notify us via Famly, email or telephone before 09.30, giving the reason for absence. Prior notice is required for medical or dental appointments which require the child to leave Nursery during the school day.
You are also able to inform us of sickness or request time off via my school portal.
Sometimes, parents have to be away from home and therefore your children may be looked after by other people. It is essential that we are advised in advance of these arrangements. In the case of an emergency, we must be able to contact an adult of your choice.
Young children may be upset when a parent is away and, if we are forewarned, we can support them.
Nursery children are not of compulsory school age and may be taken out of school to go on holiday during term-time, however, we would request that you inform us in writing or via my school portal as early as possible when your child will be absent. Please be aware that, once they are in full-time education, from their Reception year, holidays in term-time can significantly disrupt their education.
Social Media Policy
Parents are reminded that it is not appropriate to use social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter or WhatsApp, to comment openly on school issues. If at any time you have a concern or complaint, your first port of call should be your child’s key person or Mrs Strudwick. If the issue remains unresolved then please consult the Head of King’s Ely Acremont Nursery and Pre-Prep, Faye Fenton-Stone or the Principal of King’s Ely, John Attwater. If you are still dissatisfied then you should put your complaint, in writing, to the Chair of Governors. The complaints procedure is on the school website.
Furthermore, any conversation that is not protected by a high privacy setting is open to the world. Any negative remarks on these sites can be seen as defamation of character, harassment or libel, which means that those responsible for posting such comments could be sued by aggrieved persons or even prosecuted by the police.
The school also advises parents not to upload photographs or video clips of their children which include other children, onto social networking sites, without the permission of their parents.
Workplace Childcare Vouchers
Parents can use childcare vouchers, issued from their employer, in payment or part payment of the School fees for any child aged three (or rising three) up to and including the Summer term of the academic year in which the child celebrates his or her 5th birthday. We accept childcare vouchers from most schemes; please contact the School Accountant on 01353 660721 for the School’s registration number and for further details.
Uniform List
Nursery 1 and 2
General
• Shoes should be Navy or Black in a polishable material (‘flashing’ shoes, trainer style or open toed sandals are not appropriate for school)
• Wellington Boots in any colour should be kept in the Nursery
• Jewellery and earrings (including studs) and nail varnish should not be worn in Nursery
• Watches may only be worn in Year 2
• Spare Clothes need not be Nursery uniform, but should be in uniform colours (navy and white)
Uniform is available from the online service, Schoolblazer.com. Their secure online ordering service allows you to shop for schoolwear at your convenience. They are committed to making your preparations for the new term as easy and pain-free as possible.
If you have any questions or require help, please do not hesitate to contact their helpline on 0333 7000703 or email Schoolblazer at customerservices@schoolblazer.com
Items may also be purchased from the King’s Ely Nearly New Uniform Shop.
Summer/Winter Uniform
As the Lent and Summer Terms vary in length and, of course, no two summers start at the same time, we will let you know in the newsletters when summer or winter uniforms should be worn.
Trouser uniform
• Navy Crested Sweatshirt
• Navy Crested Jogging Bottoms
• White Polo Shirt
• Navy Cord Shorts or Trousers (optional for Nursery 2)
• Navy V Neck Jumper with Duck Egg Stripe at V and/or Duck Egg V Neck Jumper with Navy Stripe at V (optional)
• Navy Crested Coat
• Grey Socks With Navy Bands
• Navy Crested Beanie Hat
• Navy Fleece Scarf
• Navy Fleece Gloves
• Sun Hat
• Waterproof Navy Packaway Jacket
• Waterproof Navy Packaway Trousers
• Navy Crested PE Shorts (optional in the Summer)
• School Satchel
Skirt uniform
• Pinafore
• White Polo Shirt
• Navy Crested Sweatshirt
• Navy Crested Jogging Bottoms
• Navy Cardigan with Duck Egg Stripe V (worn with the summer dress)
• Navy V Neck Jumper with Duck Egg Stripe at V and/ or Duck Egg V Neck Jumper with Navy Stripe at V (optional)
• Summer Dress (to be worn with navy cardigan)
• Navy Crested Coat
• Navy Tights and/or
• Navy Socks – worn with the pinafore
• White Ankle Socks – worn with the summer dress
• Navy Crested Beanie Hat
• Navy Fleece Scarf
• Navy Fleece Gloves (attached to the coat if possible)
• Sun Hat
• Waterproof Navy Packaway Jacket
• Waterproof Navy Packaway Trousers
• Navy Crested PE Shorts (optional in the Summer)
• School Satchel
Please ensure all cloths (including both shoes) are clearly named.
Staff List
Mrs Faye Fenton-Stone
Head of King’s Ely Acremont
Mrs Heather Strudwick Head of Early Years
Mrs Lucy Holden Deputy Head of EYFS / EAL
Mrs Kelly Langford Nursery Administrator
Miss Kayleigh Darkens Senior Practitioner
Mrs Elizabeth Thomas Senior Practitioner
Miss Joanna Coldrick Senior Practitioner
Mrs Rachael Street Nursery Practitioner (Lunchtime cover)
Mrs Lucy Hunt Nursery Practitioner
Mrs Georgia Smith Nursery Practitioner
Mrs Kirsten Reader Nursery Practitioner
Mrs Roxanne Davies Nursery Practitioner
Miss Katherine Causton Nursery Practitioner
Mrs April Norman Nursery Assistant
Mrs Victoria Lever Head’s Secretary
Mrs Debbie Howell Head Chef
Staff email addresses
FayeFentonStone@kingsely.org
VictoriaLever@kingsely.org
RachaelStreet@kingsely.org
KellyLangford@kingsely.org
GeorgiaSmith@kingsely.org
LizzyThomas@kingsely.org
KirstenReader@kingsely.org
KatherineCauston@kingsely.org
JoannaColdrick@kingsely.org
HeatherStrudwick@kingsely.org
LucyHolden@kingsely.org
LucyHunt@kingsely.org
KayleighDarkens@kingsely.org
DebbieHowell@kingsely.org
RoxanneDavies@kingsely.org
We hope that this booklet is helpful; however, please do not hesitate to email or speak to a member of staff if we can help further.
