Playworkers and EYFS
A distance learning pack called EYFS for Playworkers is being launchedby MTCS Training Academy as an introduction to the EYFS and how itaffects playworkers involved with children under five. The trainingpackage aims to help playworkers to reflect on their practice, analysehow they will meet the new requirements of the EYFS and includes a shortknowledge test. The pack costs 10 (plus 2.50 p & p), withdiscounts available for groups of eight or more. This will includecertification and mentoring by e-mail and telephone. The pack can beordered by email at eyfs@michaeltoombs.co.uk. For more information visitwww.seriousaboutplay.com
Saving for children
Advice to parents about how to save money for their children's future isavailable at the new website www.myeggnest.com. The free online resourceincludes an independent guide to saving and investing Child Trust Fundvouchers, with reviews of the best performing CTF accountsavailable.
PEOPLE AND PLACES
An ambulance calls
Children from Little Acorns Nursery in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, enjoyeda visit from St John's Ambulance. Nursery worker Leanne Watson said,'The children had so much fun learning about how the ambulance servicehelps people, and we encouraged the pre-school children to ask questionsand talk about experiences they have had when they have hurtthemselves.'
One of the best
Little Fishes Pre-School in Maidenhead, Berkshire, received an'outstanding' grade in its Ofsted inspection last month. SupervisorAlison Hallissey said, 'This makes us one of the best educationalestablishments in the county. Everyone is thrilled with the results andit shows the hard work and commitment of the staff, committee andparents.'
Outstanding double
The Children's House in Stallingborough, Lincolnshire, has gained anoutstanding grade for its Montessori nursery and out-of-school club.Director Theresa Ellerby said, 'We are very proud of this achievement.For both the nursery and out-of-school club to be acknowledged for theoutstanding opportunities on offer is just recognition of a whole team'sefforts.'
FUNDRAISING
Music for meningitis
Nurseries can make music and raise money for the Meningitis ResearchFoundation at the same time by holding their own 'Make Music withMarvin' event. Friendly monster Marvin shows children how to createtheir own musical instruments and hold a sponsored concert. Or why nothold a cake sale at your own 'Tiny Tots Tea on the Lawn' party? For freeinformation packs with ideas for both events, e-mailfundraising@meningitis.org or telephone 01454 281 814.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Children get messy and creative with paint lollies at WestminsterChildren's Society's Marsham Street nursery in London. Nursery workerFeyi Oyewole came up with the idea for this activity, which she calls'Painting Lollies'. The instructions she gives are: add paint to waterand pour the solution into anything that will act as a mould, such asjelly moulds or yoghurt pots. Add a stick to provide a handle and putthe filled moulds into the freezer. Once frozen, turn the shapes out ofthe moulds and let the children paint with them. As the paint melts theshapes and textures all become different.
- Do you have a story to tell? Share it with us atnews.nw@haymarket.com.
- The best photo of the week will win 30 worth of children'sbooks.
