Stages

At Once Upon a Time we operate a stage system based on age groups. These are: Caterpillars (under 1s), Butterflies (under 2s), Cubs (under 3s) and Lions (preschool).

 

Caterpillars

Under 1s

Butterflies

Under 2s

Cubs

Under 3s

Lions

Pre-school

Experience and development 

It is very important for children to experience a sense of continuity and belonging within the nursery in the same way as they would within a family. At Once Upon a Time we achieve this by assigning each of our children to a small group. Each day the children will spend time doing a variety of fun activities within their group as well as joining together with the whole nursery for group activities such as singing, entertainment or playtime. 

This key person system allows the children to progress through the nursery in the company of friends of the same age. Our home from home environment also means that all children get to know all staff members, which really helps with the transition between groups.

What the parents say

“Thank you so much for all your care and support you have provided for Isaac and Max. They have loved being part of the preschool and will be sad to leave. We wish you all the best in the future.”

Alison Osborne

“Maddison has come on leaps and bounds since coming to Once Upon a Time. She is happy to come and I feel very comfortable leaving her here. We actually have difficulty explaining to her that you are shut at weekends!”

Zara Norris

“We are grateful to the nursery and the staff for their hard work and care. Our eldest son enjoyed preschool at Once Upon a Time and benefited from their support when moving into reception and starting school. We have been delighted with recent improvements; better communication between nursery and home, parents' evenings, and trips to the local park. Our youngest son enjoys his time at nursery and is very happy there, thanks to all the staff.”

R. Watson