VE Day

It’s been a joyous term as we celebrated our Early Years Practitioner Steff’s wonderful wedding and soaked up the sunshine listening to Vera Lynn in the garden, bunting blowing in the breeze, sitting on picnic blankets enjoying our tea party as we celebrated 80 years since VE day. Our visit to the church was fascinating, as the children embraced the opportunity to explore and discover the flags and flower arrangements, wreaths, poppies and photos whilst listening to incredible stories of the brave soldiers who fought so heroically to help keep us and our country safe. Our heartfelt thanks to Gill and her team for making us feel so welcome and for making VE day so memorable for both the staff and children.

As this shorter summer term is flying by, the days grow longer and the sunshine fills our garden with warmth and light. It’s a wonderful time to be in the outdoor classroom and a privilege to watch as the children continuously explore and investigate, sharing in their surprise and delight at the dramatic changes in the colour, height and structures in our raised beds from one week to the next. Sunshine not only makes our days cheerful but also helps our bodies grow strong and healthy. The children know how important it is to wear hats, apply sunscreen and keep well hydrated to keep safe while enjoying the fun under the sun. This warmer weather has provided great learning opportunities to demonstrate what happens when we go without water, as our plants begin to wilt and the grass begins to dry out, but how magically with a helping hand and a watering can, life and vibrancy is quickly restored. For nineteen of our children, June marks the countdown to our Graduation Ceremony and starting school. It’s a time filled with excitement and curiosity as we talk about what school will be like, and how we can prepare children to be as independent and resilient as possible. Preparing for School plays a large part in forming our curriculum as the term draws closer to July, supporting their self-care, successfully using buttons and zips, unpacking their lunch boxes and unscrewing their drinks bottles requires strong fine motor skills and lots of practice!

To further support a positive transition, over the coming weeks, Reception Teachers, Teaching Assistants and Special Educational Needs Coordinators will be visiting Stepping Stones, talking to Practitioners and meeting their new children for the first time. This gradual approach is an opportunity for Teachers to get to know their new children in a familiar environment before the children begin their ‘taster sessions’ at their new school. With the support of caring helpers, children can be ready to step excitedly into their next big adventure and confidently look forward to meeting new people and making lots of new friendships.