Heriot’s Nursery takes children for their pre-school year during which time we lay the building blocks for Literacy, Numeracy and Health and Wellbeing. In recognition of the importance of this early stage of development, the Nursery is staffed by two teachers and two Early Years Practitioners. All Nursery staff are trained in Forest Schools and lead regular group sessions in Heriot’s bespoke Nature Nursery and at our Golden Woods site.
We have a clear vision of what we want to achieve at George Heriot’s Nursery:
Our vision, aims and values guide us every day, ensuring that the Nursery is a fun, nurturing and inspiring place where children can thrive and get the best possible start in life:
Aims
We believe that every day is a learning day, and that learning is all around us. Our carefully thought out indoor and outdoor spaces are filled with opportunities to spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and encourage a love for learning. Learning happens everywhere which is why outdoor play is an important part of what we do. It helps children to develop independence, build confidence, and learn to assess and manage risks in a fun and engaging way.
As well as being a place of learning, we ensure a caring environment where pupils are valued and listened to. We focus on strong and meaningful relationships, ensuring that pupils feel safe, supported, and valued in our care.
As partners in the child’s journey, we build strong connections with families and the wider community. We keep families involved and informed, through regular updates and reporting, events and open doors sessions. We also involve children and parents in trying to continually improve.
Location
The Nursery is located on campus in a purpose-built building, with its own play area and mud kitchen and a direct route through to the school’s Wildlife garden. The Nursery staff are in Nursery from 08:15 each morning to receive children ready to start their day. Hot lunches are available and parents can select their child’s menu choices in the preceding week. Snacks are available outside of lunchtime and can be viewed on the weekly snack menu. The Nursery day ends at 2:00pm.
Specialist Teaching
Specialist teaching is given in Music, Physical Education and Learning Enhancement. Activities and experiences support each child’s emotional, personal and social development, while natural curiosity is stimulated and always encouraged. With free flow play from the indoors to outdoors, children become problem solvers and critical thinkers in a variety of environments, as well as developing their caring side through environmental awareness and understanding of sustainability. Creativity and physical skills development are key, through collaborative and individual play-based opportunities.
Progression to Junior School
Most Nursery children progress to the Junior School, where they enjoy their first taste of school in a nurturing and more structured environment.
Wrap Around Care
Outside of Nursery hours, the Wrap Around Care facility at George Heriot’s opens at 07:30am and remains open until 6pm each day.
Join us on the 27 September to see George Heriot’s in full swing.
Meet teachers, explore academic departments, hear the pipe band, watch activities, and hear from school leaders.
Importantly, hear why your investment in a Heriot’s education will give your child strong foundations for life.