We provide nursery places for two and three year olds, and children can start as soon as they have their second birthday – they don’t have to wait for the next term to start as they do at other Nurseries.
The Nursery is on the second floor of the school which gives children free-flow access to our outdoor deck, where they can engage in a range of activities and play with outdoor toys. This area is shared with the Reception children which encourages interactions with others, and also helps when it comes to transition from Nursery. Inside, the classroom is designed specifically for children of this age, with areas for roleplay, art, music and more. We also take the children to nearby Shandy Park once a week so they can explore the outdoor world.
Learning
We aim to promote healthy independence, self-assessment of limited risk and continuous indoor play at Solebay. Experienced staff encourage children’s development through play, and provide a wide range of exciting and stimulating activities. We work hard to build strong links between home and nursery so we’re able to support children and their families effectively.
First Days
We understand starting Nursery can be an anxious time for both children and their parents/carers, so we do our best to make the whole experience as very easy, and soothe as many worries as possible! Every child who joins our Nursery, along with their parent/carer, is invited to a meeting in the school before they start so they can familiarise themselves with the surroundings. This is also a chance for our nursery staff to find out more about your child so they can get to know them better.
We make sure children are introduced gradually to their new routine – on their first day they will stay for two hours in the morning, then two hours in the afternoon on their second day so they are not overwhelmed. The next day we try to have the child in for the whole day, but this is dependent on how well they are coping – if we think they aren’t ready then we stick with half day sessions until the time is right to introduce full sessions.
Applying for a Nursery place
To apply for your child’s Nursery place at Solebay you need to apply through Tower Hamlets directly.
Funding
All children are entitled to 15 hours per week of free early years education for 38 weeks each year. This usually starts from the first school term after their third birthday, but we allow them to join as soon as they turn three, providing there is a free place for them. If you take a place at Solebay Nursery your child must attend for the full 15 hours.
An extra 15 hours per week may be available free for families where both parents are working (or the sole parent is working). You can find more information on whether you will be eligible for the extra funding here. Anyone who can’t get the additional free 15 hours can choose to pay a top-up fee instead to secure a full-time place.
FAQs
What age do children begin at Solebay Primary Nursery?
What are the opening times?
What food/drink is provided?
My child has a special need, what support will you provide for them?
Is there a uniform?
Our guide to preparing your child for nursery:
Toilet training
Ideally children will know how to wipe themselves properly and pull up their underwear, as well as flush the toilet and wash their hands afterwards, but obviously we always allow for (and expect) accidents. If your child does occasionally have mishaps then it’s a good idea to let their teacher know and pack spare underwear in their school bag.
Eating with a knife and fork
This is particularly important if your child will be having school lunches. We will have supervisors on hand to help, but they can’t help everyone at once. It also helps your child feel more confident if they’re able to cut up their own food.
Getting dressed
If your child can fasten and unfasted buttons, zips and Velcro, they’ll be able to go to the toilet without help and change for PE lessons.
Get into a routine
Help your child get into the habit of getting their uniform and school bag ready every evening. It’ll help the mornings feel less rushed.
Dry run
Before their first day at school, have a practice run of getting ready. It’ll prepare you both for the big day and might even generate some excitement.
Asking for what they need
It’s important your child has the confidence to communicate their needs, such as requesting to go to the toilet or asking another child if they can borrow something.
Sitting still
Children have to sit still and listen at school, and they’re far more likely to manage this if they’ve got used to doing it at home first. Getting them to do it as you read them a story is a fun way to practice.
Taking turns and sharing
Being able to take turns and share is essential. Help your child develop these skills by playing games with them that involve taking turns and encouraging your child to share their toys when they have play dates.
Dealing with losing
Some children find it hard to lose (as do some adults!) so it’s helpful if they’ve had this experience before starting school. Help them by playing games where they’re not always the winner, and encourage your child to congratulate others.
Please and thank you
Remind your child to use good manners with their teachers, friends and when they’re at home.