CURRICULUM & BEYOND
Our EYFS-Led Nursery & Preschool Approach
At The Burrow, our nursery and preschool in Ashtead, Surrey, we pride ourselves on our one-of-a-kind approach to early years education. Working with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework, we have developed our own unique curriculum which blends child-led learning, outdoor experiences and meaningful play, to nurture curiosity, confidence and a love of learning.
This, together with our Burrow Explorer initiative, allows us to support children in developing our five special characteristics of Great Burrow Learners:​​​
Curious Communicators
Resilient Risk Takers
Inspirational Investigators
Practical Problem Solvers
Dynamic Do-ers
The core pillars of our nursery and preschool’s curriculum are:
OUTDOOR LEARNING
Outdoor learning is key to our curriculum, and at the heart of life at The Burrow.
Children:
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Experience freedom, adventure, fresh air and activity in our beautiful gardens
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Develop curiosity, practical skills and respect for the environment
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Increase knowledge of specific subject areas, including plants and trees, wildlife, seasons and weather
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Extend physical skills, such as running, climbing, balancing, digging, water-play, building, safety, hygiene and self-care
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Enjoy exploring, discovering, excitement, curiosity, enthusiasm, persistence, problem solving, and teamwork, fundamental to all areas of The Burrow Curriculum.
That's why we place so much focus on outdoor learning, and value our beautiful, private gardens so highly.
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Our Burrow Explorer initiative ensures children not only continue learning in our wonderful outdoor environment, but extend it into our magical private woodland, to experience even richer, hands-on outdoor learning.
COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES
Community Experiences focus on helping children understand the world around them.
Children:
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Connect with local places in and around Ashtead, such as shops, libraries, schools and churches and people working in the community, like firefighters, builders and doctors
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Learn about key themes, including families, jobs, transport, cultures, towns, and the world around us
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Build confidence and curiosity through real-life experiences and explore further through their own play
With our Burrow Explorer package, children also enjoy planned trips and outings within the local community to enhance learning opportunities.
CORE BOOKS
Our Core Books curriculum gives children the early literacy skills they need to become avid bookworms!
Children:
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Share a selection of carefully chosen, much-loved books
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Hear stories and language repeated, building familiarity and confidence
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Begin to “read” independently using picture cues and memorised text
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Develop a love of books and a belief in themselves as readers
Our core books are chosen to reflect a range of themes, genres and styles, helping children build a rich understanding of the world while developing a love of literature.
KEY SKILLS
Our Key Skills curriculum helps children develop the practical and social skills they need for a successful transition to school and life ahead.
Children:
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Learn everyday tasks like putting on coats and shoes, holding a pencil, and managing personal belongings
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Practice listening, sharing, tidying up and taking turns
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Build confidence in counting, recognising their name, singing and talking about their experiences
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Develop essential life skills including self-regulation, resilience and independence, through child-led play and exploration
With guidance from our experienced, qualified team, children leave The Burrow ready, confident, and well-prepared for the next stage of their learning journey, as our parents and local schools pay tribute to every year.​
Want to find out more?
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Explore how we expand our unique curriculum with our Burrow Explorer enrichment initiative
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Learn more about our approach in our prospectus
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Book a parent tour or register your child via our contact page or using the button below
