Our children are the stars in our wonderful Early Years setting – so we gave them a chance to sparkle.

They feature in a new video to promote the fantastic resources and highlight that, for those families yet to make up their mind, places are still available this September. See it here.

Early Years Foundation Stage has been boosted by the appointment of two members of teaching staff. Sophie Skipworth, a familiar face in the setting, has been promoted to Phase Leader while Emma Coppin, well known in other areas of Kidgate Primary Academy, has been appointed Teacher.

Sophie said: “We have a fabulous teaching and support team in the setting as parents / carers know. We’re excited that Emma’s joined us. The children love her and I know it has been a long-held ambition for her to work in Early Years. She’s a perfect fit.”

Investment has also been made on additional resources. “This setting is about the amazing space, inside and out. Hopefully, anybody walking through the doors picks up an immediate buzz of excitement. The most important thing is the children are safe and happy. That means they are engaged and learning. We have some space in September and we would welcome parents and families if they wanted to have a look around.”

Sophie said they were lucky to have plenty of space for the children to explore their interests.

“Our curriculum is mirrored inside and out so there are opportunities to learn on a larger scale outside while still accessing all the areas of the curriculum that the children need to develop their skills,” she said.

Tables and floor spaces where the children are taught – supported by the latest technology – are complimented with areas focused on reading, creativity, small world, the environment, and construction. “It’s very much the children’s space,” said Sophie. “While the activities we put out are developing their skills and furthering their learning, we key into the children’s interests and what they really enjoy. “They like to problem solve and independently play. We bring vocabulary and questioning into their environment, enabling those learning opportunities, but it is the children’s classroom.”

Emma could not wait to start teaching the children. “It has been my dream goal all my life to be a teacher in Early Years to help all these children and their families with the transition into school,” she said. “I want to be there to help and support them in that journey. “I love the team down here. They are so supportive, caring, kind and calm and they create a lovely, nurturing environment for the children. “Each child gives us joy and we strive to give joy to those children each and every day.”

Acting Headteacher Susan Cook welcomed the appointments. “Sophie and Emma are fantastic assets to EYFS and we are excited about the future. We love the video but I’d encourage parents / carers to visit and experience this fabulous setting for themselves, particularly those yet to make up their mind about September.”

To visit the facility and meet the team, please contact them via office@kidgateprimary.co.uk or call 01507 308620.

Please don’t forget to view the video by clicking here.