Fact Sheet - Markenfield

Castle Nursery Fact File

Dear Parents

Did you know.....

·       We have a story sack library that parents can sign out and borrow, containing a story and props to use, giving another dimension to those story times.

·       We have just become an accredited Forest School. As part of our introduction parents will be invited on a Forest School session to see what it’s all about.

·       We have  Spring (April – Sept), Autumn (Sept – Jan) and Winter (Jan – April) menu’s.

·       We hold stay and play sessions on the second and fourth Friday of every month, where parents are encouraged to come and play with their children at the setting.

·       NCT coffee mornings are held at Castle, Markenfield on the 1^st Friday (for those mummies with 2^nd children) of every month and the second Friday (for first time mummies) of every month.  At the 2^nd NCT coffee morning we have a resident health visitor who can answer any questions or weigh your child if you so wish.

·       We are currently organising play dates between parents and your child’s key person.  The thought behind this is to get to know your child’s key person better whilst they find out a little more about their key families (eg) where you like to go on holiday, do grandparents live close by? etc.

·       All parents are encouraged to look at the company policies and procedures.  There may be some that are of more interest to you than others, which is fine.  A complete copy is situated in the parent information area by the front door.  We are quite happy for you to take it home to peruse however you will need to sign it out.  Otherwise we are happy to photocopy particular policies for you if you so wish.

·       We are re introducing our parent forums.  These shall take place once every quarter to discuss any operational topics and ideas to improve the service.  The forums shall be constructed as an opt in/out meeting whereby parents are not obligated to come to everyone however we would like a mix of parents from different age groups, if possible, so that changes that may be agreed will benefit all concerned.  We have arranged the time for 5pm – 6pm as we thought that this may be easier for parents to leave work and attend.  Please could you advise the office if you are coming for refreshment purposes.

·       We currently have three staff studying for their and two who have successfully completed, their foundation degree.  We also have an Early Years Professional and a staff member with a BA and MA in Early Years and interprofessional working.

·       Michelle’s working hours are five days per week (7.30 am – 4.30pm) and Leanne works (7.30 am – 6.15pm) Monday to Thursday if you need to speak to us, however Michelle will be available later in the day should her working hours not be convenient for parents.