CostaKinderCare España [Our Nursery School]

Bilingual Programme

Pre School and early primary (0-6 yrs) is an extremely favourable age for learning languages as our minds are highly receptive. Early learning of a second language has positive effects on the intellectual development of children, who simultaneously develop a deeper understanding and awareness of their own and other cultures.

The most effective way to teach early years children is through structured play where early learning experiences are relaxed and pleasurable. They learn when they are happy and do not feel the stress of being overtaxed in any way.

Generally children acquire a new language with some degree of ease, informally and subconsciously almost by accident, as a by-product of play, projects and participation in singing, drama and games.

CostaKinderCare España offers a bilingual curriculum in Spanish and English with an equal number of English and Spanish mother tongue teachers in each department. In this way a new language will be embedded in the everyday life of our Nursery, as children learn the meanings of words and structures from the situations in which they are used. They do this constantly in their own language as part of their socialization.

Inspiring Curriculum planning
Our curriculum planning builds on children’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm, They learn best through play (by practising the skills they have learnt), first hand experience and discussion. Our age appropriate curriculum of activities and structured play provides access to a wide range of learning experiences.

For babies our qualified staff provides constant love, cuddles and stimulation encouraging children to discover more about themselves, the world and each other. Through songs and rhymes we teach simple gestures derived from sign language to enhance communication during those formative months. An abundance of toys, interesting mobiles and a large soft play area to practice standing and walking skills, provides further stimulation and challenges.

From toddlers to preschool we work in accordance with the British Foundation Stage Curriculum guidelines focusing on the Early Learning Goals, and from ages 5-7 years, Key Stage 1 (National Curriculum).

Our educational consultants plan activities in such a way that children see our educational programmes and targets of attainment as fun and play, for example, developing important language and listening skills through singing and dancing, stories and counting - all in conjunction with bilingual resources.

Children’s Achievement Records
Informal Assessments form part of our curriculum, Unobtrusively we observe and record each child’s progress, this enables us to ensure that the needs of each child are recognised within the group and their individual learning plan is constantly revised to meet these needs. They provide parents/guardians with an essential and ongoing record of their child’s development, enabling children to recognise their own achievements.

Through these assessments we ensure learning is interesting and challenging but not overtaxing. Children must feel secure and confident about themselves, as this is directly linked to how they will succeed now and later in life. In order to learn, children must believe they can.

Staffing and Methods
Our staff are qualified and experienced but the most important credential we seek is to employ those with a real empathy and commitment towards children in their care. A Nursery Manager is responsible for the day-to-day running of our Nursery, supported by a Deputy Manager. Each department has its own Unit Co-ordinator supported by assistants and each child has his or her own Key Worker to ensure personalised attention and support every child needs, Key Workers share the care of the children but have particular responsibility and knowledge of the children they assess.

Special educational needs will be met by our appointed SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) and a Staff Training Co-ordinator will ensure ongoing staff training in all developing child care issues. Daily activities involve working within small groups alternated with free play and large group interactions, meals, snacks and rest periods for the younger ones.

Meals

Meals are freshly prepared in our own kitchen where our qualified cook provides a nutritional balanced diet for your child; we encourage all our children to eat a variety of foods. Mid morning and afternoon snacks are provided, we discourage the use of sugary foods and drinks and actively encourage children to eat local fresh fruit and vegetables. Special diets and vegetarian meals are catered for and weekly menus are displayed.

Parents / Guardians
Our policy is to work together in a valuable partnership with parents/guardians. We welcome your views and suggestions. Regular communication is the key to a successful partnership, daily schedules and weekly lesson plans are displayed on the parent’s notice board and each child has their own communication book. You will be invited to regular Parent’s evenings to discuss your child’s progress and any other issues with your child’s Key Worker. Regular workshops will be provided covering all aspects of childcare along with social drop ins where parents can have a coffee and meet one another informally.