Vernon Lodge Kindergarten enjoys the title ‘Best Kindergarten in the area’. It was established in 1981 and has a long proven record of success. It has new and up-to-date facilities and equipment. Children may attend just the Kindergarten, although it is designed to provide a natural progression into the preparatory school.
We believe the saying ’a child’s work is their play’, providing a balanced programme of creative activities, craft, music and drama, as well as pre-school learning. Play activities include sand, water, play dough, dressing up, small world, etc. Creative work includes collage, painting, gluing, modelling and baking. Craft work, may include sewing and weaving,this helps to develop the children’s dexterity and co-ordination, which is further developed in music and movement.
Above all, Kindergarten children are taught to enjoy the basics of pre-reading activities, number work and the language of numbers. The children take part in activities which prepare them for reading and enables them to enter our own Preparatory School with a sound start.
We are registered to receive the government early years nursery grant for 3 and 4 year olds.
Curriculum
An OFSTED Inspector commented: “This Kindergarten should celebrate its excellence in language, literacy and especially mathematics”. The Kindergarten aims to lay firm foundations in early learning, providing children with a head start to their education. The daily routine is varied and never dull; the children are encouraged to experience a variety of activities throughout the day. They work in small groups, with a pupil/teacher ratio of 6:1. The room is designed to accommodate the different activities: imaginative play, creative work, role-play and a quiet book corner. The children also enjoy their first steps on the computer and other ICT activities. Children may begin reading when the teacher feels the child is ready. Parents are encouraged to support this important aspect of learning at home, guided by the teacher’s professional advice. Children are taught language and numeracy individually; early scientific and mathematical concepts are acquired through sand and water play and cooking, as well as many other practical activities.
Art and Craft
A wide variety of creative work – art and craft – is produced by the children. We recognise the importance of the creative process rather than necessarily the ‘end result’. For example, children take great delight in working on a group project for a wall display or in seeing their own creation displayed. They often proudly take their work home too!
Music and Movement
The children particularly enjoy music and movement, as well as singing and playing the percussion instruments. In the winter, small apparatus is provided for them inside, while in summer they make the most of our beautiful country garden and lawns. Kindergarten pupils are encouraged to participate in seasonal events such as Christmas concerts and the harvest service.
Progress and Development
When a child enters Vernon Lodge Kindergarten, his or her progress is carefully monitored. Records of each child’s development are kept, with particular regard for the Early Years Foundation Stage. Regular discussions are held with parents on a child’s progress. We also aim to encourage good manners and self-discipline, together with sharing and consideration towards others.