Mission Statement
What we are trying to do, and what it looks like on an ordinary morning.
Our mission is to create a caring and nurturing environment where all children feel a strong sense of belonging and feel valued for who they are. We want our children to truly believe that Child's Play is their school, and for it to be a place that they look forward to coming to every day.
Every child is a unique child
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage, which is built around the idea that every child is a unique child who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured. That is not a phrase we borrowed for a website. It is the framework every Ofsted-registered early years provider works to, and it is what we plan each morning around.
Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates, and the framework covers the education and care of all children in our care, including children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Learning through play
It is our strapline and it is also the method. Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships, and they learn best in an environment where their experiences respond to their individual needs.
In practice that means free-flow play indoors and out for the whole session, a garden that is open every session whatever the weather, and a few fixed points to hang the morning on: snack, story, tidy up. Waterproofs and wellies live by the door.
Small, and known
Every member of staff knows every child by name, and knows their grown-ups too. If something is wrong, you will hear it from us at the door rather than in a newsletter.
We are owned and managed by two local parents, Thea Arthur and Susan Raftery, who have run Child's Play together since April 2008, in the same church hall. Most of our staff first came here as parents themselves.
Safe, and accountable
Every member of our team holds an enhanced DBS check and is trained in safeguarding. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Diane Crowe, and Thea Arthur deputises.
Every policy we work to is published on this website in full, for anyone to read, because you should not have to ask for them. Our most recent Ofsted inspection is published too.
Would you rather have it as a PDF?
Everything on this page, in one file you can keep, print or forward to whoever is helping you decide.
Come and have a look round.
Tell us a little about your child and when you are hoping to start, and we will be in touch to arrange a visit. No obligation, and no waiting list fee.
Or call 01483 565 343
