“Play is not a luxury – it is a right. And it is essential for lifelong learning, health, and resilience.”
UNICEF, 2025.
Here you’ll find practical information about life at The Children’s Workshop, including how we support children’s learning and development, our approach to SEND and inclusion, term dates, policies, and useful information for current families. We hope this page makes it easy to find the things you need, whether you are already part of our community or are considering joining us.
“A hundred worlds to discover, a hundred worlds to invent, a hundred worlds to dream.”
Loris Malaguzzi
Learning Philosophy
At The Children’s Workshop, learning begins with play. Young children are naturally curious. They want to explore, ask questions, make connections, test ideas and understand the world around them. Our role is to create an environment where that curiosity can flourish, with thoughtful adults nearby to observe, encourage, extend and support their learning.
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which guides learning and development from birth to the end of Reception. Within the EYFS, particular importance is placed on children’s personal, social and emotional development, communication and language, and physical development. These form the foundations for all other learning. As children grow in confidence, their experiences naturally broaden into literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design. At The Children’s Workshop, these areas are woven through everyday play rather than treated as separate lessons.
We are especially interested in how children learn. Some children investigate by taking things apart, some by watching carefully, some by talking, making, moving or repeating an activity many times. We look closely at each child’s interests, ideas and ways of learning, and use these observations to shape the opportunities and experiences we offer.
Children are encouraged to play and explore, become deeply involved in what they are doing, keep trying when something is challenging, make connections and develop their own ideas. These qualities help to build the confidence, curiosity and independence that support learning far beyond preschool. Families are an important part of this process. Parents and carers know their children best, and we value the knowledge, observations and experiences they share with us. By working together, we can build a rich picture of each child and support them in ways that feel individual, meaningful and joyful.
Above all, we want learning at The Children’s Workshop to feel like childhood: full of imagination, play, conversation, wonder, movement, and discovery.
SEND, Inclusion, and Belonging
Every child brings their own strengths, interests, experiences, and ways of learning to The Children’s Workshop. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all children feel welcomed, valued, and supported to flourish.
Our preschool is enriched by families from many countries, cultures, and backgrounds. We celebrate the different languages, traditions, and experiences children bring, encouraging them to take pride in their identities while developing curiosity, understanding, and respect for others. Through stories, songs, celebrations, and everyday experiences, children learn to appreciate the diversity of the world around them.
Where a child needs additional support, we work closely with families to understand their needs and agree how best to help. Guided by the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice, we adapt activities and environments, provide individual support, and work with specialist professionals where appropriate. Our priority is always to ensure every child can participate, develop, and enjoy their time with us.
Our SEND Co-Ordinator: Hollie
Our Behaviour Co-Ordinator: Nicky
We warmly encourage families to contact us about their child’s individual needs, whether before joining or at any point during their time at The Children’s Workshop. We are always happy to talk.
