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Begin with curiosity, leave with courage.
What We Offer
Teacher-Led & Values Driven Founded and led by qualified teachers Susie and Adam, Hillside Gems combines expertise in teaching, curriculum and SEND with a playful, positive and purposeful approach to early years education. Everything we do is designed to help each child build confidence, kindness, independence and strong foundations for learning.
Story-Centred Planning ​Our story-centred curriculum uses high-quality books and purposeful storytelling to develop children’s communication, emotional understanding and deeper thinking. Each story becomes a springboard for play, conversation, creativity and discovery - helping children explore new words and ideas, make connections and bring their learning to life.
Playful Learning Our playful learning approach gives children the freedom to follow their interests, make choices and explore their own ideas. Our practitioners observe closely, knowing when to join in, introduce new language or add challenge—and when to step back. This balance extends children’s thinking, language and experiences, while giving them the confidence to test their abilities and take appropriate risks.
Montessori-Inspired Environments Our Montessori-inspired environments are purposefully arranged to help children do more for themselves. Resources and everyday essentials are kept within easy reach, enabling children to make choices, begin their own play and take an active role in familiar routines. With adults there to encourage them, everyday moments—from washing their hands and collecting their water bottle to eating lunch and returning resources - become opportunities to build independence, responsibility and confidence.
Outdoor Exploration Our outdoor learning goes beyond everyday garden play. Dedicated Outdoor Learning Days give children extended time to explore nature, investigate, build, move and take appropriate risks. At The Barn, our outdoor learning provision for preschool children, children can tackle bigger challenges, work together and solve problems - building the confidence, resilience and independence that will support their transition to school.
