Plus is a holistic pre-nursery programme. Guided by teachers, parents on the Plus programme accompany their young children as they take their first steps in early learning. Plus is powered by Alpha Plus Group, a leading London independent school provider.
Many parents felt isolated during the pandemic years. Post-covid, early years teachers noticed the gaps in children’s development when they joined nursery. This is how the Plus programme was born.
The Plus programme includes:
- Twice weekly face-to-face learn-and-play sessions
- Twice weekly zoom sessions
- Weekly activities to do at home
- Fortnightly talks from specialist guest speakers
- Access to advice from experienced early years teachers, as your child progresses
The learn-and-play sessions take place in nurseries across London (Hampstead, Notting Hill, Chiswick, Putney) and Kent (Tonbridge).
The Plus team is dedicated to supporting children and their families at this wonderful, pivotal stage in their lives. The team use the latest research into child development to build and adapt the programme for children aged 6 to 36 months.
Why engage with a pre-nursery learning programme like Plus?
At this age, children are developing rapidly. Research shows that their experiences during this time will be crucial in forming the person and the learner that they will become in the future. As a young child gains confidence in a nursery school setting with a familiar adult by their side, they are empowered as a learner. They are ready to discover new skills, experiences, and possibilities: ready to thrive at nursery and beyond.
The early years foundation stage (EYFS) curriculum, which underpins Plus, has been carefully researched and designed so that all children receive a holistic education. The teachers at Plus have an in-depth understanding of this curriculum. They provide professional guidance for parents seeking to enhance these formative years for their children.
The Plus Programme has been designed to provide rich opportunities for parents to discover and understand countless ways to support their children in their early learning. Other carers, such as a nanny or grandparent, can also accompany the children on their journey at Plus. It’s designed so all caregivers will learn valuable skills and knowledge along the way.
Parent testimonials
“The teachers are lovely and give each child special attention. I can better understand my child’s development”
“Our daughter clearly enjoys coming to the in-person sessions – there is so much for her to do!”
“It feels great being part of a community of parents”
“This is what my baby needed after the lockdown”
5 reasons to take part in Plus
For the children:
- Experience new stimuli
- Socialise with children and adults
- Become familiar with a nursery environment
- Learn through exploration
- Develop their independence
For the parents:
- Gain access to activity ideas for babies and toddlers, planned and demonstrated by teachers
- Meet other parents
- Access an exclusive parenting programme with workshops led by specialists
- Gain an understanding of your child’s early educational experience within a nursery setting
- Discuss your child’s development with education professionals
To get started: some activity ideas from the teachers at Plus
‘Treasure basket’
Provide your child with a basket, box or bag of varied toys and objects (like tinsel, shiny toys, and blocks) and allow them to explore, play and discover.
What will they learn?
- To experience their senses
- To communicate through play
- To use physical movement to problem solve
- Observe your child interact with the resources: this will give you an insight into how your child learns
‘Sensory water play’
Use a container filled with water, smaller containers, sponges, pipettes and so on. Allow your child to discover the possibilities and follow their lead: pour, splash, and squeeze the water!
What will they learn?
- Early mathematical skills: space and capacity
- To focus their attention
- To develop physical strength and more precise movements with their hands
‘Free painting, with different brushes’
Let your child discover their capacity to use paint and make marks: you could try using a broom on an outdoor surface, a toothbrush on paper, a dish brush, a nail brush. Sometimes the hands are the best tools!
What will they learn?
- Their capacity to make marks with different instruments
- Creative skills
- New textures that they can experience
Email plus@alphaplusgroup.co.uk for more information or to speak to a member of the team.
Follow @The_Plus_Programme on Instagram and Facebook.
