A day at nursery
A day with us
Every day has a steady rhythm of play, learning, rest and time outdoors. Here is what happens in each room, from drop-off to pick-up.
We open at 8:30am and close at 4:00pm. Children arrive, put their things away and register themselves. At circle time, we begin with Sūrah al-Fātiḥah, then sing, talk and learn together.
Snack, play, Arabic and plenty of time outside fill the rest of the day. At home time, we share any important news with you, so you always know how your child's day went.
A day in Ghurfat al-Nūr (Room of Light)
Every day in Ghurfat al-Nūr (Room of Light) has a balance of independence, learning, play, rest and time outdoors. Children follow their own interests and grow at their own pace.
We keep a steady daily rhythm because it helps little ones feel safe. Within it, we respond to each child's needs, interests, energy and stage of development.
8:30am
Arrival and self-registration
Children put away their own bags, coats and lunch boxes, then register themselves. It builds confidence, independence and a sense of belonging from the moment they arrive.
Morning play and learning
Free play and child-led exploration, plus one planned activity each day linked to the book or story we are reading. Children investigate, ask questions, make choices and learn by doing.
Circle time
We begin with Sūrah al-Fātiḥah, then sing songs, talk together and learn the days of the week and months of the year. Children practise listening and sharing their ideas.
Snack time
Wherever they can, children help prepare their own snack. They make choices, use their fingers and hands carefully, and learn about healthy eating.
Nappies and personal care
Nappies are changed regularly through the day. Where possible, your child's Key Person does this. If not, it will be another familiar adult your child knows and trusts.
Sleep and rest
Children who need a nap can have one. We follow our safe sleeping policy, and rest times follow each child's own needs.
Arabic time
Arabic is part of every day. Children hear and use the language in a natural, playful way.
Outdoor play
Every day, children head outside to the mud kitchen and the sound wall, help grow vegetables and take care of Pearl, our African snail.
4:00pm
Home time
Parents and carers are welcomed in, and children leave with their belongings. We share any important news from the day, so home and nursery stay connected.
A day in Ghurfat al-ʿIlm (Room of Knowledge)
A day in Ghurfat al-ʿIlm (Room of Knowledge) balances independent learning, Montessori activities, language, practical life skills and outdoor exploration.
All through the day, children move between indoor and outdoor learning, following their interests with our practitioners alongside them. We want them to feel confident to make choices, take responsibility, ask questions and enjoy learning.
8:30am
Arrival and registration
Children put away their own belongings and register themselves. It gives them confidence, responsibility and a sense of ownership from the start of the day.
Free play and Montessori learning
Children choose from free play and carefully prepared Montessori activities. These help them concentrate, solve problems, work independently and love learning. Our planning covers all seven areas of the EYFS.
Arabic time
Children have Arabic lessons in small groups with our Arabic language teacher. They practise listening, understanding and starting to speak Arabic in a supportive setting.
Circle time
Circle time begins with Sūrah al-Fātiḥah, followed by songs and conversation. Children learn the days of the week, the months of the year and talk about the weather.
Phonics
Phonics is part of every day. Children learn letter sounds and build the foundations for reading and writing, with activities matched to their stage.
Lunch
Children help set up for lunch and prepare their own snacks. They practise practical skills, learn about healthy eating and enjoy time together.
Caring for animals and nature
Children have real jobs, like helping care for our chickens. They learn about kindness, responsibility and what living things need.
4:00pm
Home time
Children gather their belongings and are reunited with their parents or carers. We share any important news from the day.
Every child is different
Our routine gives children security and familiarity. Within it, we follow each child's needs, interests, energy and stage of development.
Lunch comes from home
Please send a packed lunch. We provide healthy snacks, and children have milk and water throughout the day.
What to bring : Lunch comes from home