Our Early Years Environment

Welcome to our Nursery! 

This is where we spend our time, exploring the environment and learning through play. There are different areas set out, including role play, snack area, mark making area and messy area. 

The Environment as ‘The Third Teacher’

Reggio Emilia identifies the value of the environment as ‘the third teacher’, whereby physical places have the potential to influence what and how children learn.

‘Reggio Emilia identifies a 3rd teacher between child, teacher, and parent: the environment. In its attention to how space can be thoughtfully arranged, Reggio Emilia has reconceptualised space as a key source of educational provocation and insight. In what ways does this idea support and challenge existing understandings within early childhood education? Learning environments should engage and foster a sense of ownership and respect when they are aesthetically pleasing, reflect the identity and culture of children and families, and encourage a connection to place.’ Children and place

“As such, the physical environment is never simply a backdrop to the curriculum; it is an integral part. An environment with rich and built-in learning opportunities also frees educators to interact with children”. (Educators: My Time, Our Place)

*Extract taken from The Curiosity Approach website