Laying the foundations for lifelong learning
Our Pre-Prep programme at Pepperberry Nursery is designed to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and inspire a love for learning in children aged 3 to 5. With a carefully structured approach, we prepare our Pre-Prep pupils for a seamless transition to formal education, fostering essential skills in literacy, numeracy, and personal development.
A thoughtful approach to early learning
Our experienced teachers create detailed, structured plans to guide children through small, meaningful steps each day. This approach builds their confidence and instills an enthusiasm for learning, ensuring they are well-prepared to embrace the National Curriculum in literacy and numeracy as they progress to Reception Year.
Building strong foundations in literacy and numeracy
We deliver a Department for Education-approved phonics programme to help children develop critical reading skills. Every classroom features a cosy reading corner, inviting children to immerse themselves in books and discover the joy of storytelling. Alongside literacy, we focus on numeracy, helping children build a strong understanding of foundational number concepts through engaging, hands-on activities.
Specialist teaching for a well-rounded education
Our Pre-Prep pupils benefit from specialist teaching in Spanish and Physical Education (P.E.), enhancing their cognitive and physical development. Spanish lessons introduce children to the basics of a new language, while P.E. sessions encourage movement, coordination, and teamwork in a fun, energetic setting.
Learning beyond the classroom
Learning extends far beyond the classroom. We organise exciting educational visits to local farms, parks, theatres, and cinemas, providing children with opportunities to explore the world around them. We also invite guest speakers to share their knowledge on topics of interest, enriching the children’s understanding of their community and the wider world.
Fostering confidence and independence
Our Pre-Prep programme not only develops academic skills but also supports personal growth. Through interactive lessons, group activities, and creative play, children gain confidence, learn to express themselves, and develop social skills that are essential for their future success.
A bright future awaits
We are passionate about nurturing every child’s potential and preparing them for the next stage of their educational journey. Our Pre-Prep department is a place where children can explore, grow, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment, laying the groundwork for a bright and successful future.
Phonics
Phonics
At Pepperberry Nursery, we use a multi-sensory approach to teach letters and sounds, catering to all learning styles—visual, auditory, tactile, and kinaesthetic.
Our phonics programme progresses through phases to build foundational skills like letter recognition, blending, and identifying tricky words.
In Pre-Prep, Phase 1 introduces themed stories and environmental sounds to make learning engaging and familiar. Phase 2 focuses on blending sounds and recognising tricky words, while Phase 3 teaches advanced sounds and letter combinations.
To support at home, we provide a phonics workshop video with tips, terminology, and activities to help reinforce your child’s learning.
Reading schemes
Reading Schemes
At Pepperberry Pre-Prep, we use the DfE-validated Twinkl Phonics SSP programme to deliver engaging, high-quality phonics lessons. With daily sessions led by class teachers, children learn new sounds, revisit previous ones, and participate in fun, interactive activities that guide them through each phonics phase.
This systematic approach helps children build confidence in reading and writing while meeting National Curriculum literacy objectives.
Our aim is to make phonics enjoyable, fostering a love of reading and writing as we support children on their journey to fluency.
Letter formation
Letter Formation
At Pepperberry Pre-Prep, we help children become confident writers through fun, hands-on activities.
Mark-making in sand, foam, or flour allows children to trace shapes, letters, and numbers, building early writing skills.
Our "Dough Disco" sessions combine playdough manipulation with upbeat music, encouraging pinching, rolling, and squeezing to strengthen hand and finger muscles.
These engaging activities lay the foundation for fluent, confident writing while making learning enjoyable and interactive.
Get in touch
Discover how our Pre-Prep programme can give your child the best possible start in their educational journey. Contact us today to arrange a visit and learn more about our tailored approach to early years learning.