The early years at Brookham are organised in a traditional semi-structured style where children are encouraged to take some responsibility for choosing their own work experiences as well as working closely with our experienced staff to master new skills.

The classrooms have well-defined work areas, which complement each other and cover a variety of skills thus providing a stimulating learning environment.

Learning new skills

All the toys and games are at low level, mainly on open shelving. The boxes are labelled so the children know exactly what each box contains. They are responsible for getting out and packing away their own equipment.

Work in the classrooms is a balance of adult/child interaction. Time is set aside to explore new experiences and learn new skills. The inclusion of adult-led activities offers the chance for children to tackle new challenges, for new materials to be introduced or to practise a new skill.

Learning to work together

The adults' role is to provide an enabling environment which promotes active learning and which encourages children to think and talk about their actions and activities. At the end of their work time the children often gather in small groups to review their work. This is an opportunity to share what they have been doing with their peers and adults.

Fun in the garden