Approach
Our Approach
We take a child-centered approach to learning, where exploration fuels everything we do. By nurturing curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving in a safe and supportive environment, we help children develop the confidence and skills they need for lifelong learning. Whether in our newly refurbished nursery and preschool rooms, expansive garden, or forest, our spaces encourage connection, resilience, and independence.
Our approach blends free play, guided play, and teacher-led activities, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn in a way that suits them best.
Styles of Learning
Free Play
Child-led exploration is at the core of our approach. Teachers observe uninterrupted play, allowing children to engage with thoughtfully designed areas like reading corners, mud kitchens, arts and crafts, music, and tree climbing, fostering creativity, independence, and joy.
Guided Play
Teachers enhance child-initiated play by scaffolding activities, creating rich learning opportunities. Through games and nature adventures, children’s curiosity, exploration, and growth are encouraged.
Teacher Led
Structured, teacher-led activities like sensory exploration and forest school experiences (e.g., campfires) offer hands-on learning and opportunities for skill-building.
Our approach
At Outdoor Owls we use an organic, play-based approach set outdoors following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning framework set by Ofsted (see here).
Our educational philosophy is child-led and guided by a couple of core principles. Firstly, we focus on what your child can do, not what they can’t. Secondly, we refrain from telling your child ‘what’ to think but rather facilitate them in ‘how’ to think.
By following these principles and not wrapping children in cotton wool, we believe your child will leave us strong and prepared for future learning and the rest of their lives.
Watch Our Learning Styles in Action
Our methods
We have taken a sprinkle of inspiration from a mix of different play-based pedagogies to inspire our practice including Froebel, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Steiner, and Forest Schools. We don’t constrict ourselves to one approach but rather prefer to tailor aspects to suit each unique child’s imagination and curiosity.
We use the outdoors as a powerful open-ended setting filled with natural resources. Hence we draw a lot from ‘Forest School’ methods which are set up to allow children to lead with their innate curiosity.
Our teacher to child ratio is 1:4 for 2 year olds and 1:8 for 3-5 year olds and different child ages are mixed together. This means children get a necessary amount for educator support and are able to watch and learn through others at different learning stages. As your child gets older with us they are able to take lead in supporting younger children around them. This helps to build your child’s confidence and cognitive flexibility.
Is Jack & Jill's Nursery School Near Me?
Jack & Jill’s forest nursery and pre-school is located in Hemel Hempstead at Woodwells Farm in Wood Lane End. As a leading nursery in Hertfordshire, we offer reliable childcare that you can count on.
We are conveniently located for locals and those living nearby in areas such as Kings Langley, Livestock Green, St Albans, Boxmoor, Bovingdon and Nash Mills to name a few locations.
Jack & Jill’s provides a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn and reach their full potential, supported by a team of skilled and dedicated staff. Simply call us on 01442 244903 or email [email protected] to arrange a site visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Taught At Nursery?
At nursery, children are taught through a combination of play-based learning and structured activities designed to support their early development. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which focuses on key areas such as communication, language and physical development, helping to prepare them for primary school.
Jack & Jill’s Nursery in Hemel Hempstead offers a rich, engaging curriculum tailored to each child’s individual needs, ensuring they develop the skills and confidence needed for a smooth transition into school.
Can I Have A Nursery Tour?
Yes, you can arrange a nursery tour at Jack & Jill’s in Hemel Hempstead. We offer personalised tours that give you an in-depth look at our facilities, introduce you to our friendly team and allow you to experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere first-hand.
During your visit, our staff will be happy to answer any questions, address any concerns and discuss your child’s individual needs to ensure a smooth and confident start to their nursery journey.
How Long Is Nursery School?
Nursery timings range from 5 to 10.5 hours. We offer half days from 8am-1pm or 1pm-6pm, and full day sessions between 8am-6pm. Jack & Jill’s also offer an early bird option if you wish to drop your child off at 7.30am.
What Measures Are In Place To Support Childhood Development?
Jack & Jill’s Nursery has introduced a range of thoughtful initiatives to enhance children’s development. These include dedicated spaces for physical activity and creative exploration in our forest school, alongside cutting-edge indoor facilities designed to support academic learning.
Do You Support Children With SEND?
Yes, we provide support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) at Jack & Jill’s Nursery in Hemel Hempstead. Our team works closely with parents to tailor care and activities that meet each child’s individual needs. We ensure an inclusive environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.