Welcome to Preschool

Our Values and Aims

At Rossmore, we encourage all children to Take Pride and Aim High in everything they do. In Preschool, we begin building these foundations from the start of their school journey, helping them to develop confidence, independence, curiosity and a love of learning.

As part of our unified EYFS team, we work closely with our Reception class to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels safe, happy and valued. We take the time to get to know each child as an individual, valuing their interests and ideas.

Through play-based learning and positive relationships, we encourage children to explore, discover and learn at their own pace, while developing the skills they need for their next stage of learning.

Learning Together

Our Preschool curriculum follows the statutory Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and is built around engaging themes and the children's interests.

Autumn 1 – Amazing Me! & Exploring Autumn
Autumn 2 – Let's Celebrate!

Spring 1 – Once Upon a Time
Spring 2 – People Who Help Us

Summer 1 – Ready, Steady, Grow!
Summer 2 – Travelling Along

We also explore seasonal, national and global events throughout the year, helping children develop an understanding of the wider world.

Learning Through Play

Play is at the heart of our Preschool provision. Our continuous provision gives children opportunities to make choices, follow their interests, develop friendships and practise new skills through meaningful play.

Children learn both indoors and outdoors, with staff supporting and extending their learning through conversations, modelling and questioning. We provide a balance of child-initiated play, adult-led activities and group experiences.

Our School Day

Our days provide a balance of learning, play, exploration and familiar routines. Children have opportunities for:

• Child-initiated play indoors and outdoors

• Stories, songs, rhymes and discussions

• Adult-led and small-group experiences

• Early phonics, literacy and mathematical learning

• Creative and imaginative play

• Outdoor learning in all weathers

• Snack and social times

• Developing independence through everyday routines

Sharing our learning environment with Reception helps our Preschool children become familiar with the EYFS environment and develop confidence as they prepare for their transition into Reception.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

We believe that real-life experiences help children make meaningful connections with their learning. Throughout the year, children enjoy experiences such as woodland walks, bug hunts, library visits, community visitors, animal experiences and seasonal activities.

Parental Involvement

We believe that strong partnerships with families are an important part of children's learning and development.

We use Tapestry to share and record children's learning throughout the year. Parents and carers can see what their child has been learning and contribute experiences from home.

We also hold Stay and Play sessions throughout the academic year, giving families the opportunity to spend time in the Preschool environment and see learning in action.

General Information

• Packed lunch required for full-day sessions

• Daily snacks and milk are provided (milk is provided until age 5)

• Please send a labelled water bottle

• Wellies and a puddle suit are needed for outdoor learning and play

We are proud to provide a Preschool where children can play, explore, discover and grow, developing the confidence and independence they need for their next exciting step.