Foundation Stage Curriculum
At St. Martin’s Nursery, our carefully designed curriculum is built around the principle that every child deserves a rich and nurturing start to their educational journey. Grounded in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and enhanced by our own curriculum priorities, we create an environment that balances structured learning with the freedom to explore. Our youngest learners (aged 2–4) are supported to develop prime skills in communication, personal and emotional development, and physical coordination, ensuring a strong foundation for future learning. Through a thoughtful balance of adult-led activities and child-initiated play, we celebrate each child’s individuality, interests, and needs.
Being part of a wider school setting means our nursery children benefit from the expertise of highly experienced teachers who understand the full arc of a child's educational journey. Our team is uniquely placed to ensure that pupils are truly “school ready” by the time they transition to Reception, developing not only strong early literacy and numeracy skills but also essential learning behaviours such as curiosity, resilience, and independence. Our curriculum is carefully sequenced so that early concepts are built on year after year, ensuring continuity, progression, and success. Children also enjoy a rich outdoor learning programme, where they explore and develop skills in our nursery garden and wider outdoor spaces, fostering a sense of curiosity, confidence, and connection with the natural world.
At St. Martin’s, we believe education should be holistic, nurturing the whole child. Alongside academic preparation, we prioritise children’s emotional wellbeing, social development, creativity, and love of learning. We offer exciting opportunities for off-site visits, including trips to Riverbourne Farm and the library at Godolphin School, broadening children's experiences and strengthening their understanding of the wider community. Our nursery is a welcoming and vibrant space where strong, trusting relationships are at the heart of everything we do. This close link between nursery and school provides an exceptional start for children and families alike, embedding a sense of belonging and laying the groundwork for a lifelong love of learning.