Drop-off at Windrush Valley Prep School & Nursery starts the way every good day should – with a warm welcome. Coats are hung on pegs, shoes are swapped for wellies if it has been raining, and within moments, the children are settled and ready to explore.
But what does a typical nursery day actually look like? Here is a glimpse through the eyes of the children who spend their days with us.
Morning – Discovering and Doing
The morning begins with free-flow play, where children choose from carefully set-up activities. One child heads straight for the water tray. Another is building a tower with wooden blocks, counting as she goes. A small group gathers at the craft table to paint butterflies.
This is not random play. Pouring water develops fine motor control. Counting blocks introduces early maths. Mixing paint teaches cause and effect. Our Early Years team set up these invitations to learn based on each child’s interests and next steps.
Later in the morning, we gather on the carpet for phonics. Songs, stories, and sound games bring letters to life. With an average class size of just 14 pupils, every child gets their moment – answering a question, holding up a letter card, or leading the group in a favourite rhyme.
Outside – Whatever the Weather
Our nursery children spend a generous part of each day outdoors. Set in the Cotswolds village of Ascott-under-Wychwood, we have beautiful grounds and we make the most of them.
On a sunny day, you will find children digging in the mud kitchen, riding balance bikes, or hunting for minibeasts in the garden. During Forest School sessions, they learn to take measured risks – balancing on logs, building dens, and exploring nature first-hand.
Afternoon – Winding Down, Not Switching Off
After lunch and a rest, the afternoon has a gentler pace. There might be a cooking activity, a group story on the carpet, or a chance to return to a favourite activity from the morning.
By the time parents arrive for pick-up, children have had a full, purposeful day. They have practised sharing, tried something new, and spent time outdoors – known and cared for by adults who understand them.
More Than Childcare
At Windrush Valley Prep School & Nursery, our nursery is not simply childcare – it is the start of a child’s education. With 97% of our Early Years children achieving a Good Level of Development, the foundations we lay here matter.
We keep things small because small works. Small enough to notice when a child is ready for their next challenge. Small enough to celebrate every milestone. Small enough to truly know every child.
Come and see for yourself. We welcome prospective families to visit, meet our team, and experience nursery life first-hand. Book a visit or call us on 01993 831793.