Our Routines

Our Day

At Patcham Village pre-school we provide a carefully balanced mix of free-play and adult-directed/supported activities and tasks.  Children’s days begin with a brief ‘Wake’n’Shake’ session, after which everyone enjoys free-flow play and snack, coming together again at 11.40am for a movement and dance session and  a story session at the end of the morning, which is split according to children’s abilities and needs.  Nurture groups and our rising 5’s enjoy 'Tiger-time' mid-morning, when the activities offered are child-centred around children’s interests.  Lunchtime in the middle of the day offers children and staff a wonderful social time when independence is encouraged and fostered; after which children once again enjoy free-play and free-flow snack mid-afternoon, finally ending the day with a story and the 'Goodbye' Song.   

"I like to race on bikes with my friends.  I like everything, it's fun"

Children's voice

Children choosing what they want to do, how they want to do it and when to stop and try something else. Free play has no external goals set by adults and has no adult imposed curriculum.  Although adults usually provide the space and resources for free play and might be involved, the child takes the lead and the adults respond to cues from the child.

Unknown