Operating Policy
When a child starts at the nursery a member of staff will talk to the child and the parents about the child?s ethnic, religious and cultural heritage and experiences at home. Staff will use this information when planning and carrying out activities within the nursery to ensure that familiar experiences are used as starting points for learning.
When planning, setting up and altering the rooms, outdoor areas, displays and equipment within the nursery, the staff will aim to create an environment that encourages a positive attitude to learning. This will include:
- Keeping the nursery environment free from any discriminatory practice or stereotypical images
- Valuing the local community and environment as a source of learning opportunities
- Using displays, resources and equipment that reflect the community in which the children live as well as the wider world.
The curriculum will include activities to encourage children to respect their own cultural background and beliefs and those of other people. These will include:
- Activities relating to a wide range of religious, ethnic and cultural festivals
- Visits to different places of worship and cultural centres
- Telling stories, listening to music and looking at pictures and videos from a range of cultures and religions
- Role play activities that reflect a variety of cultures
- Discussions with and between the children about the similarities and differences in their experiences and the reasons for those similarities and differences.
The staff will ensure that all children are given support to participate in activities, experiences, visits and discussions and to ensure that all children are listened to carefully and with respect.
The staff will carefully consider the need for equality of opportunity when planning activities and experiences. When necessary they will modify activities or provide additional equipment or materials to ensure children are not excluded.