We enjoy the use of our own outside play spaces to the front and rear of the setting and encourage outdoor play as often as is practicable. In Noah's Ark, inside and outside play areas are designed to allow children free flow between the spaces so that children can choose where to play.
We will go outside in all weathers. In wet weather, your children can splash in puddles and squish around in mud, as well as run around and play games on our all-weather surfaces. Our gardens also have sheltered areas to provide adequate protection against extremes of hot, cold and wet weather.
The garden facilities include climbing frames, climb ropes, rope ladders, cargo nets and ramps, and other risky play activities so that children can practise physical skills and risk assessment and risk-taking.
Your children will also have opportunities to reflect on nature, to try growing food and to learn about sustainable practices such as recycling, composting and reducing waste.
Get in TouchThe front garden provides an opportunity for the children to observe people, vehicles, animals and aeroplanes as they pass by or fly over. Tall black railings, complemented by a low hedge, keep the children safe but still afford them a good view of what's around them. In the mud kitchen, they can use a variety of tools – all age-appropriate – to dig, bury and 'discover'. Our bamboo 'jungle dome' continues to grow, offering another enclosed play space and is popular for the children who wish to develop role-play, mark-making or to take rest.
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Experiences in the front garden include the planting of seeds and growing of herbs and foods. We encourage an interest in healthy eating, and concepts learned while gardening, like composting food scraps for fertiliser or using gathered rainwater, help children to develop a sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.
In this second outside space, the children have access to a wide range of resources and equipment to suit all ages and abilities. The children can role-play in the café or construction areas or burn off some energy on one of the scooters or bikes. Physical skills are supported and strengthened through a variety of activities from ball games to obstacle courses, and children are encouraged to seek challenge and manage risks under the constant supervision of dedicated staff. Wall-mounted chalkboards provide an opportunity for mark-making and there is a fully equipped creative trolley that holds many other art and craft resources, accessible to the children at all times. We have a gardening and nature area providing more opportunities for play, discovery and creativity.
Get in TouchThe less structured setting in the outdoors is fantastic for encouraging interaction and developing social skills. It also provides opportunities for relaxation, mindfulness and revival.