THE BURROW EXPLORER
Our unique provision that extends our curriculum
At The Burrow, our woodland nursery and preschool in Ashtead, Surrey, we offer the enhanced Burrow Explorer package alongside the standard government-funded EYFS provision. This gives children additional experiences designed to enrich learning and spark curiosity.
The Burrow Explorer package features exciting activities, resources, and special events beyond the standard EYFS curriculum. While these experiences are not included in government funding, parents value them for the confidence, skills, and magical start they provide as part of their child’s early years education.
WOODLAND DISCOVERIES
Daily outdoor learning in our private wood extends holistic development through play, investigation, exploration and a strong connection to nature.
Children:
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Explore nature safely in our beautiful, extensive, secure private ‘wild’ wood
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Learn to respect the environment and understand their role in sustaining it
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Investigate growth, composting, insect houses, pollinators, and the natural world
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Develop practical skills such as climbing, balancing, digging, construction, investigation, as well as hygiene and safety
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Build confidence, curiosity, teamwork, resilience, physical skills, and wellbeing
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Discover the wonders of imagination, hunting for dragons and fairies!
FEATURE HOUSE & GARDENS, WITH ANIMALS
The Burrow is based in a charming 19th-century gatehouse in Ashtead, Surrey, with cosy indoor spaces, complemented by extensive gardens that encourage play, creativity and hands-on learning.
Children:
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Explore and learn in pretty, atmospheric rooms that spark curiosity and imagination in a homely environment
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Enjoy large, beautiful gardens, well equipped for creative, physical play
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Care for a variety of animals, including our much loved rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks, fish and stick insects
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Learn about animal welfare, responsibility, empathy, emotions and respect
CHALLENGE TIME
& STAFF EXPERTISE
Challenge Time helps children develop the key skills they need for a confident and successful transition through nursery and preschool, to school and life beyond.
Children:
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Take part in daily, small-group activities with a focus on the skills needed for a successful transition to school, building independence
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Are recognised by parents and local schools for their readiness and confidence from day one
Our team:
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Includes two fully qualified primary school teachers whose expertise goes beyond basic EYFS requirement
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Undertakes extensive, continuous professional development, including Makaton sign language
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Is highly skilled and motivated to deliver exceptional learning experiences
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Holds respected accreditations, such as OFSTED-acclaimed #JustQuality
MUSIC & CLUBS
Our Burrow Explorer programme gives children extra opportunities for creativity, imagination and fun.
Children:
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Take part in specialist music sessions with our partner Pat-a-Cakes, featuring new songs, props and instruments
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Enjoy focused afternoon clubs such as pottery, gardening, drama, cooking, art, construction and textile play – a good reason to stay all day!
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Gain diverse learning experiences that go beyond the regular EYFS curriculum
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Develop even more creativity, confidence and new skills through these additional clubs and activities
VISITS & OUTINGS
Children:
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Discover local places such as garden centres, churches, schools, parks and the aquatic centre
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Gain cultural, social and practical learning experiences
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Meet members of the community and explore new environments
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Bring back ideas and resources to enrich learning at The Burrow
SPECIAL EVENTS
& OCCASIONS
Our Burrow Explorer programme brings children and families together through a variety of fun and memorable experiences.
Children:
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Take part in seasonal events like the magical Christmas grotto with Father Christmas, Easter egg trails, hat parades and end-of-term celebrations
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Enjoy fun, surprises and special gifts that create lasting memories
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Share these wonderful occasions with parents and carers
Parents:
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Are offered informative sessions on topics such as healthy eating, school confidence, routines, positive behaviour, supporting SEND and first aid
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Are invited to social and networking events including coffee mornings, pub nights, stay-and-play sessions, Q&A evenings and quiz nights
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Connect with other families to build friendships and a strong sense of community
Thanks to the Burrow Explorer, The Burrow is more than a standard nursery and preschool — it’s a truly unique experience for children and their families.
For more information, to register, or to book a tour of our magical setting, please:
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View our prospectus
