Learning and
development through fun,
play and exploration
At Toad Hall, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and are fully committed to meeting our responsibilities under the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice (2014). The EYFS outlines seven areas of learning, and we design our learning environments and activities to enable play and exploration across these, both indoors and outdoors.
We create learning environments that offer a home-from-home feel, providing a safe and welcoming space where children can feel settled, happy, and ready to build the foundations for a lifelong love of learning. We recognise that children learn best when they are curious about the world around them, which is why we offer activities designed to spark awe and wonder with a focus on learning through play.
Bespoke Curriculums
Each nursery has a bespoke curriculum, carefully designed by the individual nursery team and inspired by the children and families who use each setting. The curriculum considers the demographic of the families and community, cultural capital, the needs of the children, and the setting's hopes and dreams for the children. The curriculum is dynamic, evolving over time to reflect the changing needs and interests of the children as they come and go.
The curriculum, combined with either our weekly planning or "in the moment planning," offers educational experiences across the seven areas of learning. Children also benefit from a variety of extra-curricular activities, specifically chosen for each setting, along with Toad Hall learning programmes such as our 'Cook and Grow' sessions.
Children’s curiosity is shaped by what they know, which is why it’s our responsibility to ensure our curriculum broadens their experiences and prepares them for future learning and life.
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
Children with SEND are recognized as individuals with unique strengths and challenges. Each Toad Hall Nursery has a dedicated SENDCo who works with children, parents, and staff to ensure that every child receives the support they need to achieve the best possible outcomes.
At Toad Hall, our mission is to give every child the best start in their education by offering fun and exciting experiences, fostering strong bonds with our staff team, and providing a safe, welcoming space while creating magical memories that will last a lifetime.
The seven areas of learning
The Prime areas of learning lay vital foundations in the early years.
- Personal, social and emotional development (PSED)
- Communication and language (CL)
- Physical development (PD)
The specific areas of learning provide children with knowledge and skills to flourish.
- Literacy (L)
- Mathematics (M)
- Understanding the world (UTW)
- Expressive arts and design (EAD)
Practitioners working with the youngest children primarily focus on the three Prime areas, which reflect the key skills and capacities all children need to develop and learn effectively. When children are ready, the specific areas of learning will be introduced, further expanding their learning.
If you would like detailed information on the childcare facilities we offer, visit or contact your nearest nursery.