We hope you are keeping well and safe.

It is close to four weeks that we have not seen our children and saying we miss them is an understatement.

Did you get our hand-made cards?

Just a few updates:

Further closure but..

A further three weeks extension to the lockdown has been announced. However, if there are any key workers who have to return to work after self-isolation or shielding, we will be happy to provide child-care. Kindly contact us.

All precautions will be taken to keep the children and ourselves safe.

Government support

As promised, the update is that thankfully, we have been given a rebate on the business rate. However, it seems we may not qualify for the government grant and may not be able to claim 80% of staff salary through the Job Retention Scheme. It has been hectic trying to reach the Local Authority and there is still need for some clarity of information from the Department for Education on supports available to Early Years Providers. It would be appreciated if anyone can help us with information on this.

Fee payment

A massive thank you to all parents who have continued to support us by paying some or all of the fees. As a setting, we have committed to paying our staff 100% of their wages as long as we can during these challenging times. As stated above, support is not as forthcoming as announced by the government. The payments help cover the bills – particularly the rent. We do not have a rent holiday from the landlord.

Home learning support

We recognise that many of the children will be missing their friends so we have decided to upload group photos onto Tapestry so they can see them. With regards to GDPR guidelines, it would be appreciated if these photos are not shared externally to protect our children in terms of safety and privacy. Please email us if you are opposed to this.

Furthermore, we are willing to support any parent who needs some materials/resources to support children’s learning and development. You can email us with the requests and we will endeavour to make these available for pick-up at the nursery at an agreed time.

There are concerns by parents that children will lag behind in learning when nursery resumes. We can assure you that is not the case. Research has shown that ‘Learning through Play’ best supports children’s development. Simple things like everyday conversations, pointing out and discussing about things in the environment, make-believe play, giving the child attention and reading together all contribute extensively to the child’s development.

See! You are doing great already!!

The Department for Education’s Hungry Little Minds campaign and the BBC’s Tiny Happy People feature tips and practical activities that parents can do at home with children to support their early learning.

Going to big school

Some parents would have received information on their children’s school admissions into nursery or reception. Congratulations 🥳. Please email us with the names of the schools they will be going to.

Fee Policy

We will be reviewing our fee policy to reflect the payment process. This does not affect the amount paid (please don’t panic). We will email this to you separately.

Finally, if there is anything we can help with, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to continue to be a part of your children’s learning and development.