Led by two qualified primary school teachers, our Reception Year offers children the opportunity to continue their hands-on, nature-based learning experiences at Nurture Outdoor Kindergarten.
We take a project-based and place-based approach to learning. We engage children in real-world learning, giving them a deeper understanding of concepts through relevant and authentic experiences. This can be translated into long term projects, such as planting a food garden, or shorter term woodwork projects that children put together independently, talking through their thoughts with their adults and peers. Taking this approach means that meaningful connections are made across a range of important skills in numeracy, literature, science, creative arts and key social and emotional skills.
During sessions, children choose from a range of activities, as well as self-directed opportunities for exploring their own interests. They take opportunities to develop skills in using tools through woodwork and bushcraft. A fire acts as the warming hub at the centre of our space, where children can develop bushfire cooking and fire lighting skills. At the heart of each session is the aim to bring opportunities for connection and building trusting and respectful relationships within our community.
Summer Born Children
At NOK we increasingly see summer born children start reception at compulsory school age (age 5). The law is supportive and an increasing number of parents are pursuing this route, for varied reasons.
If you are undecided about whether starting mainstream education at 4 or 5 years old is in your child’s best interests, staff at Nurture Outdoor Kindergarten will be happy to talk through any relevant options you might have. We also have detailed information on the process of mainstream school applications for summer born children. Contact us for more information.
"Bran has relished the outdoor space that allows him to explore, take risks, and learn how to use his body; the emotional space within which he has grown in confidence, forged friendships, and navigated conflicts; and the freedom to pursue his interests and lead his own play. He explains to me in detail how to make a fire, or how to saw and hammer different types of wood - bushcraft and woodwork are two of his favourite activities at Nurture. But he’s just as happy pottering, problem solving and “imagineering” with his friends, whatever the weather."
-Emily, Parent
"My son already had a love for the outdoors but was socially nervous and hadn’t quite found his “voice”. Now, aged five and about to start school, he’s confident, popular, independent, and absolutely loving life. This is in huge part thanks to Nurture and its wonderful community of staff and families. "
-Annie, Parent
Things to Know
Your child is entitled to a full-time place in school in the September following their fourth birthday. However, your child is not required to enter into education until the prescribed day after they turn five (being 31 December, 31 March or 31 August). This is known as Compulsory School Age (CSA). This means children are able to stay in our Kindergarten programme up until the term after they turn 5 years old. Therefore, we welcome applications from any child whose needs can be met by the Kindergarten and our staff.
Sessions run 9am to 3pm
Registration fee £70
Membership
Our members are families like you, families looking for community, friendship and solidarity. They are parents and carers looking to give their child wonderful early experiences, whilst feeling supported themselves in the journey of parenting.
Nurture membership is designed to be a true partnership, nurturing your child's development with personalised support every step of the way. Join our community and team up with a dedicated NOK Practitioner who will focus on your child, you and your family.
With age-specific programmes rooted in deep expertise, exclusive perks, and lasting relationships built on trust, we provide far more than childcare services - it's an unwavering commitment to your child's potential.
The membership fee reflects our holistic approach, providing comprehensive care that extends beyond transactions to create a strong foundation for your child's future success.
Want to find out more? Please see our video series here.
Find details on our membership pricing here.