The curiosity approach
and why it works
We've moved away from institutional early years education. Children don't learn best from worksheets and rigid routines. They learn by exploring, questioning, and following their natural interests in an environment that feels like home.
How we teach and care
Home-like, not institutional
Our rooms don't look like classrooms. They look like living spaces where children feel comfortable and safe. Natural materials, soft lighting, spaces to retreat to when overwhelmed. This matters especially for children with additional needs who can struggle in harsh, overstimulating environments.
Child-led learning
We watch what interests each child, then build learning around that. If a child is fascinated by water, we create experiences around water. If they're drawn to texture, we give them materials to explore. Learning happens when children are genuinely engaged, not when they're forced through someone else's plan.
Specialist SEN support
Our three nurture rooms provide different levels of support for children with additional needs. Higher staff ratios. Individualised approaches. Staff trained to understand sensory needs, communication differences, and behavioural support. We work with families to create plans that actually fit each child.
Sustainability in practice
Children grow vegetables and herbs in our award-winning garden, then help turn them into meals through our cooking sessions. They learn about waste and recycling by doing it, not just hearing about it. It's hands-on education that connects them to where food comes from and how to care for their environment.
Parent involvement
Parents aren't just dropping children off. They're growing vegetables with their kids through Growing with Sarah, learning to cook together with Cooking with Mirren, and joining Be Active movement sessions. When families are involved, children make better progress. Various Parent/Carers Stay and Play Sessions run throughout the year.
See the spaces in action
What parents tell us
“The curiosity approach has completely changed our daughter. She used to be so shy, but now she leads her own little projects at the nursery. She's a different child.”
“Our son has autism and struggled everywhere else. At Busy Bugs, the nurture room staff understand exactly what he needs. He's made more progress in 6 months than in 2 years elsewhere.”
Common questions
What ages do you take?
How do you support children with SEN?
What's the curiosity approach in practice?
What are your staff ratios?
Can I visit before enrolling?
What if my child has additional needs but no formal diagnosis?
Come and see how we work
The approach makes sense when you see it in action. Book a visit and watch how children interact with the space and the staff.
Come along anytime. No booking needed.
Arrange a Visit