Nurture at Lapage

Comets is a nurturing environment where children learn academically and socially to develop their confidence. They become responsive to others, learn self-respect and take pride in behaving well and achieving their potential.

The Nurture Room is a place within school where children can be given freedom to express themselves. This is a school-based intervention run by two members of staff in the’ Comets’ Nurture room, addressing children’s needs.

The aim is to replace missing early experiences by developing positive pupil relationships with both teachers and peers in a supportive environment. The friendly, supportive relationship between the two members of staff is also itself an important source of learning as role models for the children. Staff encourage pupils to learn through what they do and through what they discover during outdoor learning, promoting active learning in the outdoors and mindfulness.

Feeding the fish and taking care of our resident pet Dwarf hamster are duties that Comets children share.

At Lapage Primary School and Nursery the Comets Nurture room is underpinned by the six principles of Nurture:

• Children’s learning is understood developmentally.
• The classroom offers a safe base.
• Nurture is important for the development of self-esteem.
• Language is understood as a vital means of communication.
• All behaviour is communication.
• Transitions are significant in the lives of children.

The Nurture staff help children develop vital social skills, confidence and self-respect, take pride in behaving well and in achieving, therefore improving their social skills. There is a special emphasis on language development and communication. Pupils are given the time they need both to listen and be listened to. Pupils are given vital opportunities for social learning – for example by encouraging them to share food ‘snack time’ and to help other pupils in the group during activities.