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The Little Learners programme opened its doors at the start of the school year, welcoming babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers, along with their parents, carers and grandparents, to explore, play and learn together in a safe and stimulating environment. Based in The Nest, a recently refurbished and self-contained mobile classroom with its own secure outdoor learning area, Little Learners provides a calm, welcoming space for families to enjoy purposeful play. Activities are planned and led by Thorns’ Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Lead, Kerri-Anne Sinclair-Cope, who ensures that each session supports children’s learning and development through exploration and discovery. Since its launch, children have taken part in messy play, sand and water exploration, outdoor fun, stories, singing and rhyme time, and creative sessions using a range of media. The group has also enjoyed time in Thorns’ dedicated Forest School area as part of the ‘Into the Forest’ sessions, all helping to nurture imagination, curiosity and connection with nature. Most recently, the school hosted its first themed week, ‘Halloweek’, where children picked and painted pumpkins, made bubbly potions, explored sticky spider webs and decorated spooky biscuits before striking a pose in the themed photo booth to capture a seasonal memory. Kerri-Anne Sinclair-Cope, Early Years Foundation Stage Lead, said: “Play is at the heart of everything we do for our children. It helps them build relationships, take risks, discover and use their senses to explore the world around them. “Little Learners offers parents and carers a chance to spend quality time with their children, learning, playing and exploring in a fun and supportive environment. Each session is designed to encourage curiosity, spark new interests and help children develop confidence and independence while building meaningful connections.” Rebecca Jordan, Headteacher of Thorns Primary School, added: “Early learning experiences set children up for future success. Those who reach a Good Level of Development by the end of reception are best placed to thrive in school and beyond. “Although we don’t have a nursery, we wanted to offer families high-quality early learning opportunities locally. Little Learners provides exactly that – a carefully planned, teacher-led space for young children to learn and grow.” Parents and carers have already been quick to share their positive feedback. One parent, Hannah, said: “It’s rather refreshing to have an outdoor play area – with an added secret woodland too! Such a beautiful setting.” Another parent, Sharnie, added: “My two-year-old daughter absolutely loves it. The activities, crafts, imaginative play and facilities are incredible. Each week there are different things to do, with special themed weeks that she particularly enjoys. I’d highly recommend it.” Karen, a grandparent, added: “As a nanny, I have seen first-hand the benefits of Little Learners with my grandson. His confidence is growing every week. He is learning to share and show awareness of others’ feelings and take those fist important steps towards being ready for school.” Sessions will resume after the October half-term, with plenty more themed fun to come, including a special visitor in December.
