In the homely, caring environment of the Kindergarten children feel a sense of belonging and security, where they can develop to their full potential. They learn directly from life and the world around them; away from the pressures of early formal leaning, numeracy and literacy goals.
Imagination and creativity are nurtured through free, creative play and craft. Toys and equipment are as simple as possible, made from natural materials or from nature itself - soft fabrics, vivid water paints, crayons and beeswax, as well as hand-made dolls and puppets. In a child's world of play a wooden bench and clothes horse become a rocket, plaited wool ropes are mermaid's hair.
Outside there is space to run and skip, play in sand, mud and water, and ride in a wheel-barrow. We all go outside to play whatever the weather. Making snail houses, picking lavender, or exploring the local field, the children develop a love and appreciation of nature.
The rhythm of the morning balances child and adult-led activity. The Kindergarten invites children to be active, to learn through doing. Teachers engage in craft and simple domestic activities which children can join in, watch, or be active in their own way - cleaning up for ring time, preparing a healthy snack (organic where possible), laying the table with fresh flowers.
With baking one morning then, sewing, painting and drawing the next, activities develop a reassuring weekly rhythm that reflects the changing seasons. Children grind wheat and bake bread at harvest time, and brighten dark winter nights with hand-made lanterns.
Songs, rhymes, ring games and festivals -part of childhood traditions for centuries- represent the many cultures and faiths of our Kindergarten families.
Each child moves on with a wealth of songs, stories and poems, rich in language and vocabulary.
Parents are actively encouraged to get involved and become part of the Kindergarten community- through festivals, talks, maintenance days, cake baking and much more. In this way the children feel part of a caring community that we are all supporting to succeed.
Highlights
Creativity and imagination- simple natural materials, free play and gentle guidance, stimulate creative and inquiring minds that stay with our children for a lifetime.
Natural world and outdoor play- with lots of outdoor play and rich seasonal activities the children develop a lasting love of nature.
Pictures
Other Information
Eligible for Nursery Education Grants:
No
Snacks Provided:
Yes
Lunch Provided:
No
Special Needs:
Yes
Min Age:
3 Years
Max Age:
7 Years
After School Care:
Yes
Number of Children per carer:
7
Number of Employees:
5
Enclosed Outdoor Play Area:
Yes
Directions
From the East
(Westbound - take exit for Cardiff City - and follow on from 2)
Get off the M4 at junction 29 and follow A48 towards Cardiff East.
Come off the dual carriage way at the junction signposted A4161, docks.
At the roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Newport Road.
Follow the road for approx. a mile and bear left at the traffic lights.
At the next set of traffic lights turn left and straight over the crossroads.
Iron street is the last turning on the right after Blockbusters and before the junction.
