We know that children are born with a natural desire to explore and learn and at Goonhavern Pre-School we offer children a wonderful environment in which to do so. In planning and guiding what children learn, we always reflect on the different rates at which children are developing and adjust our practice appropriately. We do this by creating an enabling environment (both physical and emotional) and through the relationships and interactions that the children experience.  We do not plan all learning ahead, rather we remain “in the moment” with the children as they explore and learn through their interests.  We observe carefully, and enhance the learning whenever we spot a “teachable moment”.  Our observations, interactions and the outcomes are recorded afterwards.

Three Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning are:

Playing and exploring: children investigate and experience things and ‘have a go’

Active learning: children concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties, and enjoy achievements.

Creating and thinking critically: children have and develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and develop strategies for doing things.