A Safe and Nurturing Environment
Polam Nursery and Preschool caters for children from the age of 1 to 4 years.
Our well-equipped and comfortable nursery is a fully integrated part of the school, giving your child the opportunity to benefit from an extensive range of facilities and specialist teaching.
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Nurturing early learners
In January 2021 our Nursery and Preschool was awarded ‘Millie’s Mark’, a Quality Mark for nurseries awarded by National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) in association with Department for Education and Millie’s Trust.
Millie’s Mark is the gold standard in paediatric first aid for childcare providers and Polam is currently the only childcare provider in Bedford with this endorsement.
Nursery 1 - 3 years
Our Nursery offers a maximum of 28 places. The family feel continues in this fun-filled class and the children enjoy a varied curriculum, with an emphasis on learning through play. Children’s interests are valued, explored and encouraged through a range of carefully planned activities.
Preschool 3 - 4 years
At 3 to 4 years old our children are really developing their enthusiasm for learning. They follow a curriculum that includes a focus on early-literacy, phonics and early maths work. While the emphasis is still very much on learning through play, the children also embark on a more structured programme with Music, Modern Languages, PE and Swimming all forming part of their weekly timetable.
Curriculum
Nursery Curriculum
Nursery children of all ages enjoy PE in our school Sports Hall.
These PE sessions are thoughtfully designed to be both fun and educational, incorporating age-appropriate exercises and games that not only promote physical fitness but also enhance their motor skills and coordination.
In addition to the physical aspect of their development, we recognise the importance of encouraging a love for the arts. To achieve this, our nursery children are introduced to the world of music through engaging sessions.
Preschool Curriculum
Our lively preschool class provides the bridge between nursery and school, with an emphasis on independence and school readiness.
Our preschool children take part in a more structured day which includes early phonics and adult led activities focusing on early maths and literacy.
From the age of 3 swimming becomes part of their weekly timetable in our own heated, indoor pool.
Continued assessment and monitoring of progress provides next steps for learning, meaning children leave preschool ready for Reception and their onward learning journey.
Holistic Development
In our Nursery program, we focus on nurturing the whole child. Through a blend of play-based learning and structured activities, we lay the foundation for social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Exploration and Discovery
The Nursery years at Polam are all about curiosity and exploration. Our little ones engage in a variety of sensory experiences, fostering a love for learning and encouraging their innate sense of wonder.
Secure and Supportive Environment
Our Nursery provides a safe and nurturing space where children can build the confidence needed for the next stages of their educational journey. With caring educators and a focus on building positive relationships, we ensure a smooth transition into formal education.
Parental Involvement
Our Nursery program encourages active parental involvement. We believe in building strong partnerships with families to create a collaborative learning environment. Regular communication and involvement in your child's early education journey foster a sense of community and support.
Swimming as part of the curriculum
From Preschool, swimming becomes part of pupils weekly timetable in our own heated, indoor pool.
Their lessons follow the Swim England 'Learn to swim' framework in which they work towards four levels of certification called 'Duckling Awards'.
Each award comes with its own distinctive certificate and badge.
Duckling 1 marks the beginning of independent movement in the water for children. As they progress to Duckling 4, they'll confidently dive in, submerge, float, and travel an impressive 10 meters unaided.
These awards play a crucial role in developing independence and building water confidence, laying the foundation for success in Stage 1 of the Learn to Swim Framework.
Book a Personal Tour
On our tours, you will have the opportunity to meet our Head and other key members of staff, and learn more about what an early education at Polam School looks like.
Please click below to register to attend. We can’t wait to meet you!
Communication
Home/School Communication
In all nursery classes we operate a Key Worker system, which ensures that each child receives personal attention at all times.
For our younger children we utilise a Home/School Diary to keep parents informed of nappy changes, sleeps, food intake etc. You are also invited to attend Parents Evenings with your child’s Key Worker once a term.
Interactive Learning Diary
Strong and effective dialogue between home and school is key to great outcomes for our children. We share your child’s learning and experiences with you using an online programme, Interactive Learning Diary (ILD).
This programme enables us to create a bespoke Learning Journal for each child which is shared online with you. We encourage parents to contribute to that Learning Journal by uploading videos, photos and notes directly from your computer or via an app on your mobile device.
Sessions and Fees
Nursery Sessions & Fees
Nursery sessions are extremely flexible and can be tailored to your child’s individual needs.
Standard nursery hours are 8.30am-4.00pm. We can provide care for 48 weeks of the year, with wraparound care from 7.30am until 6pm (term-time) and 8.00am-5.40pm (during school holidays).
We require all children to attend for a minimum of 4 sessions and we encourage children to start moving towards full time care by their final term in the nursery, to help prepare them for their transition to the school.
