Curriculum
At Stepping Stones, our curriculum nurtures the whole child and builds a lifelong love of learning.
Guided by the EYFS, we provide rich, play-based experiences that follow children’s interests and spark exploration and imagination.
As a small nursery, we truly know each child and tailor learning to their needs, supporting confidence, curiosity and joy.
A core element of our approach is an Enabling Environment — warm, well-organised and filled with open-ended resources that promote independence and deep-level learning.
Our indoor and outdoor spaces invite children to investigate, problem-solve, communicate and lead their own play.
Through close observation and meaningful interactions, we extend learning in thoughtful, purposeful ways.
This ensures every child experiences challenge, success and a strong sense of belonging.
Why Choose Us?
There are seven Areas of Learning and Development in the Early Years Foundation Stage, and these shape everything we do at Stepping Stones.
Prime Areas
The first three are known as the Prime Areas. They are the most important in the early years because they build the foundations for all future learning:
Communication and Language – developing children’s speaking, listening and understanding.
Physical Development – supporting movement, coordination and healthy self-care habits.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development – helping children build confidence, manage feelings and form positive relationships.
As children grow, gain confidence and become more secure in the Prime Areas, we broaden their learning through the four Specific Areas:
Literacy – early reading, writing and a love of stories.
Mathematics – developing number sense, patterns, shapes and early problem-solving.
Understanding the World – encouraging curiosity about people, places and the natural world.
Expressive Arts and Design – exploring creativity through art, music, movement and imaginative play.
Together, these seven areas ensure children receive a balanced, well-rounded early education that supports both their development and their enjoyment of learning.
The Importance of Language and Communication
The importance of language and communication.
Communication and language are at the heart of our practice, helping children express themselves, build relationships and understand the world around them.
We develop these skills through rich conversations, stories, songs, role play and an enabling environment that encourages talk and collaboration.
“Many thanks for making Stepping Stones Childcare such a lovely place to grow.”
Frances (2005)