About Us

Little Acorns Pre-School provides care and education for children aged two to four years. We are based within the grounds of Sidegate Primary School, Ipswich.
We are an Ofsted registered early years provider following the Early Years Foundation Stage. We are a registered charity run by a voluntary committee.

We are situated within the school field and have a lovely outdoor space in which we encourage children to explore and use their imaginations. We have access to some school facilities which supports transition into reception. We have our own entrance on Sidegate Lane.

Our rooms are homely with neutral colours and are rich in natural and authentic resources that encourage children's exploration, imagination and a connection to the world around them. We are adaptable and flexible to children's needs.

We welcome visitors and are happy to arrange a visit or answer any questions you may have.

Key Person System

It is an EYFS statutory requirement that each child is assigned a key person.

Before starting with Little Acorns every child is assigned a key person. They meet with this person on their induction and during a home visit prior to them starting.

The role of the key person is to help ensure that every child’s care is tailored to meet their individual needs, to help the child become familiar with the setting, offer a settled relationship for the child and build a relationship with their parents and/or carers.

The keyperson provides emotional security, particularly at the most stressful times, such as transitions. They build a unique relationship with the child, learning about their likes and dislikes and areas of development that may need supporting.

Online Learning Journey

All children who attend Little Acorns Preschool will have a personal online learning journey that records observations and photos of their time at preschool.

We use a system called famly. Parents/carers have access to an app where they can easily view observations of their child either on an individual basis and as part of group observations. Notifications are sent when an observation is ready to be viewed. We also use group observations and the newsfeed to keep parents informed about our curriculum and up and coming events.

We encourage parents to add comments, photos and videos to their child's account so that their key person can work in partnership with them.

Useful information

Outdoor play

We access the outside area daily, in all weathers unless we deem it unsafe. Children require suitable clothing for different types of weather. We ask for spare clothing to be provided as children will have access to messy play, water and mud and for clothing and footwear to be clearly named.

Toileting

Outdoor play

We support parents with toileting. Children need to wear clothes that allow them to see to their toileting needs independently.
Children in nappies should have spare nappies and wipes in their bag. Nappies are checked on a regular basis.

Absence

Outdoor play

Absence

A child's absence must be reported This can be done via phone call, e-mail or the FAMLY app. Please see our ill/infectious child policy and Attendance policy for further information.
We are unable to administer medication unless it is prescribed by a doctor or in the event of an absolute emergency. Please see our First aid and medication policy.