Pencombe Early Years

Pencombe Early Years accepts children from age 2.5 to 5 years old. We are now part of Pencombe CofE Primary School in a new vibrant, purpose built Early Years building.

This consists of a main classroom space with a secure kitchen area and nappy changing, toilets and hand washing areas which are accessible for the children, promoting independence and privacy. The classroom is a light and airy space with direct access to a large all weather covered play area. This provides a lovely free flow space where the children can explore a rich outdoor provision.

Characteristics of Effective Learning

Holistic Approach

Pencombe Early Years provides a holistic learning approach for each child which is possible because we are a small rural preschool. We have access to the local village footpaths which also consist of a stream running through the village and footpaths through fields where the children are safe to explore.

Our Curriculum

The curriculum in the Foundation Stage is taught through the Early Learning Goals. Our EYFS area is a carefully planned and well-resourced environment that caters for the various needs of a young child. We offer a broad range of experiences for the early years, both indoors and outdoors. Our Early Years team plan a range of purposeful activities which inspire and engage children as well as match the different levels of need.

There are seven areas of learning that shape our educational programmes.

The 3 prime areas are:

- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, social and emotional development

Children are also supported within the 4 specific areas of:

- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design

Unique planning for unique children

Our daily planning is catered towards the unique child and we take account of the child’s interests in the setting and at home. Parents and carers are valued and included in their child’s learning and we encourage parents to come into the setting every morning when dropping off their children, so they are able to talk to their child’s key person and observe what their child will be learning during the day. We use the key person system to ensure children settle well into the setting and have a secure relationship with staff.