Our principles

Acorn Nursery principles

We know that children’s experiences in the earliest years of their lives are critical to their subsequent development. 

We encourage children to develop a positive sense of themselves and give opportunities for developing self knowledge, self esteem and self confidence.  Children are cared for in a thoughtful and nurturing way appropriate to their stage of development.  We promote mutual respect through activities which encourage positive social behaviours like sharing and kindness to others.

We follow the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. 

Children are offered a well planned learning environment, where they are able to make choices, experiment, find their own voice, learn from first hand experiences during free flow play and access a wide variety of play opportunities. Nursery schedules and routines flow with children’s needs. We have an inclusive environment and ethos where everyone is valued and differences are portrayed positively. 

All children have a key person.  The key person helps the babies and young children develop confidence and build relationships. 

Children learn independence from secure relationships, both at home and in the nursery. We recognise that families are central to the wellbeing of the child. Parents are children’s first educators.  We respect that families are all different and parents and practitioners can learn from each other.  Together we can support and extend children’s learning and development. We promote positive relationships with parents and the wider community.

All children are encouraged to make a positive contribution to the nursery and the wider community

We give them experiences which enhance their knowledge and understanding of our world, and to value the diversity and experiences of themselves and their peers.  Creating a shared space with common codes of behaviour and an appreciation of the feelings of others. We aim to give support to families and their young children. We work alongside other agencies, for example, health visitors, family support workers and speech and language therapists.

It is the duty of all staff and volunteers’ working in our children’s centres and nurseries to promote the wellbeing of the children and safeguard them from harm.

The Brighton and Hove City Council Safeguarding Children policy sets out how we will meet our statutory duties and pastoral responsibilities for children in our care and refers to the procedures to be followed. All agencies within Brighton & Hove are required to follow the Pan Sussex Child Protection & Safeguarding Procedures which are available on line. If you would like a copy of the policy please ask.