Settling in
Currently, we are encouraging parents to leave their child in the cloakroom to support their developing independence. Whilst this may be upsetting for members of your family, it will aid the settling in process and help your child to develop in confidence. Members of staff care and nurture for them to ensure they feel safe, secure and happy. We will always feedback to you at the end of the session with any important information.
Independence
At Crossley Hall we aim for pupils to become increasingly independent in order to prepare them for their future. At the age of three, we encourage children to walk rather than be carried by staff or parents; this helps their physical development. They will work towards taking off or putting on their own shoes and coats, as well as independently caring for their things. We also try to ensure pupils are toilet trained as soon as possible. In order for this to be successful, it is important to have regular communication between home and school. Please ask if you would like any further support with this.
Curriculum
In the Early Years we offer a play-based curriculum, meaning pupils can learn about things they are interested in through play. For example, the children have shown a recent interest in castles. You will see that the role play area has been transformed into a castle and there are lots of castle-themed activities on offer, for example making crowns or painting kings and queens. You will notice that adults model activities then encourage pupils to have a go by themselves! We value the independent work that they produce. To help your child, please practise writing their name as often as possible. At this stage, this may mean writing it for your child and encouraging them to look at the letters, saying the sounds you can hear together.