Our Curriculum
A rich blend of the Early Years Foundation Stage framework and Montessori principles — designed to help every child thrive.
Early Years Foundation Stage
The EYFS framework sets the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five in England. At Apple Tree, we use it as our foundation — enriched with Montessori methods that encourage independence, self-directed learning and a deep respect for each child’s own pace and interests.
We plan carefully for each child individually, using our observations to identify their next steps and provide exactly the right level of challenge and support.
Learning Through Doing
The Montessori approach treats children as naturally eager learners. Rather than directing children from the front, our practitioners prepare a rich environment and step back — allowing children to choose their activities, work at their own pace, and develop real independence.
Practical life activities — pouring, sorting, threading, preparing snacks — build concentration, coordination and a profound sense of capability. These are skills that underpin everything else in a child’s development.
Areas of Learning
Our curriculum covers all seven areas of the EYFS, delivered through play, exploration and meaningful daily experiences.
Prime Areas
The foundations that underpin all other learning and development.
Communication & Language
Rich conversations, storytelling, singing and small-group discussions form the backbone of our language provision. We give children time and space to express themselves, and our practitioners model clear, warm, responsive communication throughout every day.
Physical Development
Both fine and gross motor skills are developed through purposeful play, outdoor exploration, movement activities and Montessori practical life exercises. Daily access to our outdoor areas ensures children are active and physically confident.
Personal, Social & Emotional Development
At Apple Tree we actively nurture children's personal, social and emotional growth, helping them flourish into confident, social learners. They form a positive sense of themselves and others as they learn how to manage their feelings and develop effective learning behaviours. During these early years, children learn how to make and retain friendships — some that may last a lifetime.
Specific Areas
The areas through which the prime skills are strengthened and applied.
Literacy
We aim to instil a love for books by bringing stories to life during daily story times. Each child has their very own book bag — once a week they choose a book from our library to take home and share with the family. Integrated daily phonics sessions enable Apple Tree children to make rapid progress in reading and early writing.
Mathematics
Mathematical concepts are woven into daily routines and play. From counting and sorting to shape, space and early problem-solving, children develop strong number sense and logical thinking in a relaxed, enjoyable environment.
Understanding the World
Through cooking, gardening, nature walks and cultural celebrations, children develop curiosity about people, places and the natural world. We celebrate diversity and help children understand the community they are part of.
Expressive Arts & Design
Children explore and play with a wide range of media and materials — painting, drawing, collage, music, dance, role play and imaginative storytelling. These experiences develop creativity, self-expression and the confidence to share their ideas in their own unique way.
Want to see our curriculum in action?
Visit any of our nurseries and see how we bring learning to life every day.