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Nursery & EYFS at Vranch House

A warm, specialist early years environment where children learn through play, communication, movement and sensory exploration - supported by teachers, therapists and NHS clinicians working together.

Our Early Years Approach

Staff use a total communication approach at all times with objects of reference, symbols, Makaton signing and clear simple communication.

Our Nursery and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision supports children aged 2–5 who have physical disabilities and complex needs. We create a nurturing, highly personalised environment where every child can explore, communicate and develop at their own pace. Early intervention is vital for our children to aid their development and help them to reach their full potential.

Our approach is:

Play-based

Children learn through meaningful, motivating experiences.

Therapy-integrated

Physiotherapy, OT and speech & language are part of the day.

Child-centred

Activities are shaped around each child's strengths and needs.

Communication-rich

Including AAC, signing, sensory communication and early interaction.

Regulation-focused

With sensory spaces and routines that help children feel safe and ready to learn.

This aligns with Ofsted's expectations for high-quality early years practice while remaining accessible and reassuring for families.

What EYFS Looks Like at Vranch House

We follow the national Early Years Foundation Stage framework, adapted for children with SEND. Our curriculum supports progress across all EYFS areas, with a strong focus on:

Communication & Language
Physical Development
Personal, Social & Emotional Development

We also provide early experiences in:

  • Literacy
  • Numeracy
  • Understanding the World
  • Expressive Arts & Design

Children learn through a balance of child-initiated play and carefully planned adult-led activities, all adapted to their developmental stage.

How We Support Progress

We use a combination of:

  • Specialist assessment tools
  • Therapy goals
  • Individual learning plans
  • Close partnership with families

Progress is celebrated in many forms - a new movement, a new sound, a shared smile, a moment of independence.

This is fully in line with Ofsted's emphasis on sequenced learning, individual progress, and preparation for the next stage.

A Joined-Up Team Around Each Child

Together, they create a consistent, supportive environment where children can thrive.

Specialist teachers
Teaching assistants
Physiotherapists
Occupational therapists
Speech & language therapists
NHS clinicians

A Typical Day in Nursery & EYFS

A day might include:

Sensory play
Communication sessions
Movement and mobility work
Outdoor exploration
Music, stories and early literacy
Time to rest and regulate
Peer interaction
Continuous play provision

Every child's day is shaped around what helps them feel safe, engaged and ready to learn.

For Parents

We work closely with families from the very beginning. You'll be involved in goal-setting, supported with communication strategies, and kept informed about your child's progress and achievements.

We understand that this is a huge step for families and we are here to support you through this process. Every child is individual and we are here to support their journey wherever it may take them.