Learning Through Play
Our learning environments are designed to meet the needs of both children and families through specific goals and objectives. We focus on building off of the strengths of each child, taking advantage of every teachable moment.
Little Lambs – Baby Room (3 Months to 2 Years)
Our Little Lambs room is a warm, nurturing space designed especially for our youngest children, from 3 months up to 2 years old. With a small group size of up to 9 children and a 1:3 adult-to-child ratio, each baby receives the individual care and attention they need to feel secure, loved, and supported.
This cosy room caters for both mobile and non-mobile babies and closely reflects each child’s home routine to help them feel settled and confident. Experienced Level 3 practitioners, trained in paediatric first aid and safeguarding, provide a calm, caring environment where little ones can begin to explore the world around them.
The room includes dedicated changing and sleeping areas, all within the same space, so children feel safe and comforted throughout the day. A key focus is on creating a language-rich environment that encourages early communication and social development, supported by stimulating, age-appropriate activities to help every baby thrive.
Busy Bees – Toddler Room (2 to 3 Years)
Our Busy Bees room is designed for curious, energetic toddlers aged 2 to 3 years, with space for up to 12 children and a 1:4 adult-to-child ratio. Led by experienced Level 3 practitioners trained in paediatric first aid and safeguarding, the room offers a safe, stimulating environment where toddlers can grow in confidence and independence.
Each day, the room is thoughtfully set up with exciting, age-appropriate activities that spark children’s natural curiosity and encourage learning through play. As toddlers begin to explore the world with greater independence, we support their personal, social, and emotional development, including promoting key milestones such as toilet training. The room is equipped with accessible toilet and changing facilities to meet each child’s needs comfortably.
Busy Bees is a vibrant, nurturing space where children are encouraged to express themselves, build friendships, and develop essential skills that lay the foundation for their next stage of learning.
Wise Owls – Preschool Room (3 Years to School Age)
Our Wise Owls room is a vibrant and engaging space for children aged 3 years up to school age, with capacity for up to 24 children. It’s designed to inspire curiosity, encourage independence, and help children develop the key skills they need as they prepare for primary school.
The room is led by a qualified Early Years teacher, supported by our modern apprentice, who together create a rich learning environment through a blend of play-based activities and focused small group work. Each day is thoughtfully planned around the children’s interests, helping to develop their knowledge and confidence across all areas of the Early Years curriculum.
We place a strong emphasis on school readiness, supporting children in developing important social, emotional, communication, and self-care skills. We also work closely with local schools to ensure every child experiences a smooth, supported transition when the time comes to move on to Reception.
Our Outdoor Area
At Little Sparks, we believe outdoor learning is just as important as what happens indoors — and our spectacular outdoor spaces reflect that. Each age group has access to carefully designed outdoor areas that encourage exploration, creativity, and physical development in a safe and stimulating environment.
Our outdoor areas include a large sandpit, a climbing wall with slides, dedicated digging and planting zones, and a mud kitchen where children can experiment with fresh herbs and spices that we grow together. These spaces are enhanced daily with additional activities that reflect the themes and learning happening indoors, helping to create a rich, well-rounded learning experience.
Children enjoy free-flow access to the outdoors throughout the day, giving them the freedom to choose how they play and learn. Whether it’s riding bikes, building in the mud kitchen, or caring for plants in the garden, there’s always something to spark their imagination.
We also love to explore beyond the nursery, with regular trips into the community — including visits to the local park, library, and even the nearby farm. These experiences help children feel connected to the world around them and deepen their sense of curiosity and belonging.