The Preschool experience at Little Cedars
(3.5 - 4 years)
Our Preschool provides a warm, enriching experience for children aged 3.5 to 4, supporting them through their final stage of nursery before full-time schooling. With a tailored approach to learning, purposeful play and access to wider school facilities, children grow in confidence, develop key skills and build a genuine enthusiasm for learning that supports their move into Reception and beyond.
A tailored curriculum with strong foundations
We follow the seven areas of learning set out in the EYFS and extend them through a thoughtfully planned curriculum that supports each child as an individual. Our curriculum is designed to nurture wellbeing, creativity, communication and early literacy and numeracy in a way that feels natural and engaging.
Learning beyond the classroom through nature
Weekly forest school sessions and visits to our Earth Centre give children meaningful time outdoors. Learning happens through direct experience, from caring for plants to observing the natural world, helping children develop curiosity and a genuine connection with their surroundings.
Supporting physical growth and healthy habits
Physical activity is part of everyday life through access to outdoor play areas and the sports hall. Children strengthen their movement skills while gaining confidence and enjoyment from being active as part of the school day.
Inspiring creativity through music
Music sessions take place each week in the Sebright Music Room with Heathfield Knoll’s Music Director. Children engage with rhythm and sound through guided activities that support self-expression and build confidence in a group setting.
Bringing topics to life through hands-on learning
We explore stories and themes, like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, through practical and creative experiences that encourage children to engage deeply with ideas. This approach helps learning feel relevant and enjoyable, supporting understanding over time.
Encouraging positive eating routines
Preschool children choose their own hot lunch and eat together in the school dining hall. This shared routine supports independence and helps children develop a positive relationship with food in a calm, social environment.
Working closely with parents
Clear communication with parents is central to our preschool approach. We share updates regularly through Tapestry and day-to-day conversations, helping parents stay informed and involved in their child’s development.
Our nursery age groups
We have four age groups at Little Cedars, which allows us to treat your child with the care they need at every stage of their Nursery journey. We carry out age-appropriate activities and socialise your child with peers of their own age.
Owls
A gentle, nurturing environment focused on building secure attachments, sensory play and daily routines. Babies benefit from consistent care and responsive interactions that support early child development.
Bluebirds
A lively space where toddlers begin to develop their independence, explore imaginative play, and engage in both structured and spontaneous learning opportunities.
Robins
A room for curious learners ready for more focused activities. With structured learning experiences and rich creative play, children build skills that support a smoother transition to Preschool.
Preschool
Our Preschool and Reception children enjoy a tailored curriculum that lays the foundation for future learning. Children gain the confidence and readiness for primary school.
Get in touch
Reception Opening Hours Monday to Friday 8.00am-5.00pm
(Holiday Time 8.00am-12.00noon)
School Day 8.30am-4.00pm
Extended School Day 7.30am-6.00pm*
*times may alter due to year group, pupil numbers etc.