Like many schools in Leicester City, and across the country we have Nurture Group. The aim of the Nurture Group is to provide teaching for children who, for a variety of reasons may not yet be ready to access the curriculum as it is delivered in the ordinary classroom.
The Nurture Group is situated in an ordinary classroom, modified to provide a homely atmosphere.
It is a small group of up to 10 children.

What do the children do in the Nurture Group?

Every morning we provide Nurture Group for the children in Key stage 1.
All the children follow the National Curriculum, and the Literacy and Numeracy strategies, but for shorter sessions than in mainstream, and in as practical way as possible. We also spend a lot of time developing the children’s social skills, and encouraging them to talk about their feelings.  As part of our daily routine we make and share breakfast together, and 2 children each day have extra responsibilities, such as laying the table and giving out milk.
 We also cook together regularly and do lots of art and crafts. 
We regularly invite parents in to join our activities, and visitors are always welcome.

How long do children remain in the Nurture Group?

In key stage 1 children normally attend the Nurture Group for between 2 and 5 terms.

What else happens in the Nurture Room?

Sometimes children around the school get angry or upset, and may be brought to the Nurture Room to calm down, and talk about their problems.
We also run groups for older children to help them develop their social skills.
We have a wide range of toys and equipment which we want all children to share, so each Wednesday we run a lunchtime club open to as many children as we can fit in the room.

We also use another room – the SARS room -with individual children as well as small groups. In this room, as well as some of the usual classroom equipment and resources, we have a Soft Play area, where children can safely let off steam, as well as a fully equipped Sensory Room – used for calming and relaxation, and to stimulate children’s imagination, and develop speech and language.
            
The room is also used for Interactive Play sessions, again with individuals, groups of children, or parent and child sessions.   

The Nurture Group staff, Mrs Davies and Mrs Jackson, are always on hand to discuss any concerns you have about your child’s behaviour, or any social and emotional problems they may have – either at school or at home. If we can’t help we can refer you to someone who can.