Our Curriculum
At Zig Zag Day Nursery Peterborough, our curriculum is carefully designed to
support children’s development, curiosity and confidence during the early
years.
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework and
use Development Matters as guidance for children’s learning and
development. Alongside this, we have developed our own approach that
reflects the needs of the children and families within our community.
Our aim is to create a learning environment where children feel safe, valued
and inspired to explore. We recognise that every child is unique, so our
practitioners observe children closely and plan experiences that build on their
interests, strengths and stage of development.
Learning at Zig Zag takes place through play, exploration, conversation and
meaningful interactions with adults and peers. By providing a balance of
structured experiences and child-led play, we help children develop the skills,
confidence and curiosity they need for future learning.
Our Curriculum Foundations
Our curriculum focuses on three key foundations that we believe are essential for children’s development and wellbeing.
Communication and Language
Communication is at the heart of everything we do. Developing strong language skills helps children build relationships, express their ideas and access learning across all areas.
Staff support communication by modelling language, introducing new vocabulary and encouraging conversation throughout the day. Children develop their communication skills through storytelling, songs, role play, group discussions and everyday interactions with staff and peers.
Through these experiences, children gain confidence in speaking, listening and expressing themselves.
Emotional Security and Independence
Children learn best when they feel safe, secure and understood. At Zig Zag, we prioritise strong attachments between children and their key person so that every child feels supported and valued.
Daily routines help children develop independence and confidence. Children are encouraged to take part in small responsibilities such as tidying up, choosing activities and developing self-care skills.
By building emotional security and independence, children develop resilience, confidence and a positive attitude towards learning
Inclusive Learning for All Children
We are committed to ensuring that every child feels included and supported. Our curriculum is designed so that all children can participate fully, including those with additional needs or English as an additional language.
Staff adapt activities and environments where needed and work closely with families and other professionals to ensure each child can access learning opportunities in a way that suits them.
Our inclusive approach helps every child feel respected, supported and able to succeed.
Curriculum in Practice
Our curriculum is brought to life through meaningful daily experiences that encourage children to explore, communicate and develop confidence.
Practitioners observe children’s interests and plan activities that support their development while keeping learning enjoyable and engaging.
Supporting Communication and Language
Children develop communication skills through:
- story time and shared reading
- singing songs and nursery rhymes
- role play and imaginative play
- conversations during play and mealtimes
- describing objects, actions and experiences during activities
These experiences help children develop vocabulary, listening skills and confidence in speaking.
Developing Confidence and Independence
Children build independence through everyday routines and activities, such as:
- putting on coats and shoes
- choosing activities and resources
- helping tidy up after play
- serving food or pouring drinks during snack time
- taking turns and participating in group activities
These small achievements help children develop confidence and a sense of responsibility.
Learning Through Play and Exploration
Play is the foundation of early learning. Our environments encourage children to explore, experiment and discover.
Children enjoy activities such as:
- building with construction materials
- sensory play using sand, water and dough
- painting, drawing and creative crafts
- exploring textures, colours and shapes
- imaginative play in role play areas
Through play, children develop creativity, problem-solving skills and curiosity.
Outdoor Learning
Outdoor play is an important part of children’s development and wellbeing.
Our garden space allows children to:
- climb, balance and develop physical confidence
- explore nature and seasonal changes
- take part in water play and sensory activities
- enjoy active play and group games
Outdoor experiences help children build resilience, independence and physical strength.
Our Curriculum Approach
Intent – Implementation – Impact
Intent
Our curriculum intent is to create a nurturing, inclusive environment where children develop strong communication skills, emotional security and independence.
We aim to support children in building the confidence, curiosity and social skills they need for lifelong learning.
Implementation
Our curriculum is delivered through high-quality interactions, engaging activities and a carefully designed learning environment.
Practitioners observe children closely and plan experiences that build on their interests and developmental stage.
Learning takes place through:
- play-based experiences
- storytelling, songs and conversations
- sensory and creative activities
- outdoor learning opportunities
- predictable routines that help children feel secure
Impact
Through our curriculum, children develop the skills and confidence needed for their next stage of learning.
Children leave Zig Zag Day Nursery able to:
- communicate their ideas and needs
- build positive relationships with others
- show curiosity and enthusiasm for learning
- demonstrate independence in daily routines
- approach school with confidence
Curriculum Progression
Children’s development progresses gradually as they move through the nursery.
Our rooms and experiences are designed to support this progression so that children build skills step by step.
Babies (Little Dreamers – 9 months to 2 years)
At this stage, children focus on building secure attachments and exploring the world through sensory experiences.
Activities support:
- early communication through songs and interaction
- sensory exploration with textures and sounds
- movement and physical development
- curiosity and discovery
Toddlers (Little Explorers & Little Adventurers – 2 to 3 years)
Children begin to develop independence, language and social skills.
Activities support:
- expanding vocabulary through conversation and storytelling
- imaginative play and role play
- creative activities such as painting and craft
- developing friendships and learning to share
Preschool (Little Learners – 3 to 4 years)
In preschool, children develop the skills needed for the transition to school.
Experiences support:
- communication and confidence in group activities
- early literacy through stories and mark making
- early mathematics through counting and problem solving
- independence in self-care and routines
Partnership with Parents in Learning
At Zig Zag Day Nursery Peterborough, we believe that strong partnerships with parents are essential for supporting children’s development.
Parents know their children best, and by working together we can ensure every child receives the support and encouragement they need.
We keep families involved in their child’s learning through:
- daily conversations with staff
- regular updates and observations shared through the Famly app
- discussions about children’s development and progress
- sharing ideas for activities that can continue at home
By working closely with families, we create a supportive environment where children feel confident, secure and ready to learn.