How we play
Free play, with a teacher close by
Most of the morning is play that children choose and carry out themselves.
A teacher kneels at the edge of the play, watches for a while and steps in only when it helps: to ask a question, to bring a new part, or to help two children sort out who has the bucket.
Sits close and watches before stepping in
Asks a question or brings a new part when play stalls
Helps children settle their own disagreements, then steps back
Stays within reach of the water, mud and tools
What stays the same
Four things every morning has
Plain things, many uses
Wood, fabric, water, clay and found materials, with no instructions and no single right way to use them.
Time to finish
A long stretch of play with nothing to interrupt it, so a plan that takes an hour can take an hour.
The yard
Outdoor time every morning, with rain jackets and boots in the coat room for wet days.
A teacher close by
A teacher in the room and in the yard, who knows each child and writes down what they say.
Come and watch a morning of play
Come and see it in the room. Book a tour, or call the school and ask us anything first.