Welcome to Puddleducks
We are a warm and welcoming pre-school (term-time only) where children aged 3 and 4 can play and learn together. Children thrive in our free-flow setting in our wonderful indoor and outdoor environment. Children follow their own interests and enquiries, learning with others and with experienced, qualified practitioners. Our curriculum offers the opportunity to engage with yoga, nurture groups, cooking, and regular visits to the main school for assemblies, music and movement and walks around the grounds. Children play both indoors and outdoors across the day, parents provide suitable outdoor clothing, allowing our interests to be followed whatever the weather.
We offer a visit for you and your child to come and see our provision and ask any questions you may have and a home visit prior to your child starting Puddleducks so we can chat about what your child enjoys doing and any support that might may be needed, i.e toileting. Your child will also be invited to a stay and play session with other children who are starting at the same time. If your child is not ready to attend a full day when they start, then this can be discussed at the home visit. We ensure your child feels safe and secure through our key person system who is responsible for settling your child, observing their learning and development and discussing with you any support they may need.
It is not mandatory to wear school uniform, however most children wear red sweatshirt/cardigan, white polo and black skirt/trousers/red summer dress. Velcro shoes are preferred for footwear. Harvem in the high Street (below Bonzo Lounge) stock sweatshirts, aged 3-4 and 5-6yrs with the Puddleducks Logo. https://www.harvemschoolwear.co.uk/Castle_Primary_School_Early_Start_RedSweatshirt_(Puddleducks)/p4883045_20996052.aspx They also have Castle book bags which are perfect for carrying borrowed library books.
We are proud of the relationships we form with parents and carers and continually develop the partnership that we have. We share your child’s learning through Tapestry, an online learning diary and have three ‘parent meetings’ a year to share your child’s progress and discuss their next learning. We also have a weekly newsletter, on Tapestry, celebrating our learning and sharing information.
Our pre-school SENCo is Mrs Lewis, who is able to support you and your child during their time at pre-school. Mrs Lewis will support you with gaining extra support for your child if needed, through referrals and contact with your health visitor. Mrs Lewis holds regular meetings with families that she is supporting.
Our Fees and Sessions
Children can start the term after their 3rd birthday (September, January or April). We accept many childcare vouchers, as well as the Early Years 15 hour, and 30 hour funding for families with an eligible code. Sessions above the 15hr entitlement cost £17.50 for 8.45-11.45, £36.50 for a full day and a full day has a charge of £1.50 for the lunch period.
Our sessions are 8:45am until 11.45 or 8:45am -3pm if attending a full day. Children can bring a lunch from home or can order a school meal online through Aspens. Snacks of fruit and crackers are provided, along with milk and water to drink.
Policies
You can find our procedures and other information in the Policy section on the Web site, such as Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum, Behaviour and Asthma policy. If you have further questions please speak with our Pre-School Manager or email puddleducks@castleprimary.uk.
We will be welcoming applications for places for September 2024, encouraging visits to Puddleducks, and will send out application forms to those who have expressed an interest.
Please contact the office (0117 986 4489 or puddleducks@castleprimary.uk) for more information. Thank you.
Jo Prideaux
Puddleducks Manager
