It has been a lovely start to the new school year, and we would like to say a very warm welcome to all our new children and families joining The Quay, as well as welcoming back the children who have stayed with us.

Everyone has settled back into school really well after the summer break. It has been wonderful to see familiar faces returning, children reconnecting with their friends and staff, and our new children beginning to get to know their new surroundings, routines and grown-ups.

We are also delighted to welcome some new members of staff to The Quay. Our new team are settling in brilliantly and are already getting to know the children, their interests and the routines that help them feel safe, happy and ready to learn.

Moorhens & Aegean’s

Our theme: Blue Planet – Rivers

This week we are beginning our Blue Planet topic, with a focus on rivers.

The children will be exploring:

• What a river is and where rivers come from

• How water travels and moves

• Different animals and plants that live in and around rivers

• Exploring water through sensory and practical activities

• River vocabulary and stories

• Creative activities linked to rivers and water

We will be making the most of the opportunities for hands-on exploration, outdoor learning and sensory experiences, helping the children to develop their understanding through play and investigation.

Coots

Our theme: Terrific Tales

Focus book: Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Coots are beginning their Terrific Tales topic with the much-loved story Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

The children will be exploring the story through:

• Storytelling and repeated reading

• Exploring the characters and setting

• Learning key vocabulary

• Sequencing events from the story

• Role play and small-world activities

• Exploring size – big, medium and small

• Practical activities linked to the three bears

• Songs, sensory activities and creative work

As always in Coots, our focus will be on building communication, engagement and confidence through play, stories, sensory experiences and carefully supported learning opportunities.

A great start!

Our first week is all about settling, reconnecting and building positive relationships. We know that coming back to school after the summer can be a big change for some children, so we are giving everyone time to settle back into familiar routines while making our new children feel welcome and secure.

We are really looking forward to the year ahead and to working together with you to make it a happy, successful and positive year for every child in The Quay.

Thank you for your continued support.

The Quay Team