About Us
History and Location
Warren Playgroup was started in 1977 at its current location in Church House in the picturesque village of Henfield, West Sussex. We are very lucky to have a large, bright and welcoming hall with an outside space for play and an additional outdoor ‘woodland’ classroom, all situated within a beautiful, central part of the village.
Our Approach
🌟 Mission and Values
Our mission is to inspire children to discover the joys of learning within a nurturing environment, fostering exploration, creativity, and growth.
🎨 Enrichment Activities
Organized activities, such as yoga and forest school sessions, further enrich the learning experience, fostering physical well-being and mindfulness.
📚 Learning Environment
Within our bright and welcoming indoor hall, as well as outdoor learning spaces and a woodland classroom, children can connect with nature and experience holistic development that goes beyond traditional classroom walls. This versatile environment allows for a diverse array of enriching activities, creating a well-rounded and engaging learning experience for every child.
👩🏫 Keyworker System
Operating on a keyworker system, we take pride in the personal connections we build with each child. Our dedicated staff members are passionate about providing individualized attention, ensuring that every child feels seen, heard, and valued. This approach forms the backbone of our philosophy, and we believe the benefits of this system are immeasurable.
👩🎓 Positive Role Models
At the Warren Playgroup, our team members serve as positive role models, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. We embrace visual strategies, including a 'Now and Next' visual timetable, to help children understand our routines seamlessly.
👏 Promoting Positive Behaviour
Throughout it all, we consistently promote positive behaviour, recognizing and celebrating each child as a unique individual with distinct needs and characteristics.
Curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage
Warren Playgroup is part of the Department for Education and Employment’s Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership. We are registered with Ofsted and follow the Early Years Foundation (EYFS) statutory framework. Our Educators support children to learn and develop:
- Communication and Language Personal
- Social and emotional development
- Physical Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Playgroup Information and Policies
💼 Structure and Management
The Playgroup is independent and overall management and control rests with a Parent committee; day to day running is provided by qualified professionals. To find out more about the committee, and for information on how or why to join, please look here.
👶 Admissions and Age Group
We welcome children from the age of two, providing a nurturing environment for early development. Register your interest.
🌟 Ofsted GOOD overall rating
Warren Playgroup is registered with Ofsted, and can accept 25 children per session. We must abide by their standards and these are available for parents and carers to read as are the Child Protection Procedures that we are legally bound to follow should the need arise. Read out latest Ofsted report here.
📋 Documentation and Policies
Our comprehensive policies, including Safeguarding, Health and Safety, Behaviour, Equal Opportunities, Special Needs, along with a dedicated Settling In program, are thoughtfully crafted to uphold these standards. Read our policies.
Opening Times and Term Dates
When are you open during the week?
We are open on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9 am to 1 pm or 3 pm. Additionally, on Thursday and Friday, our hours are from 9 am to 1 pm.
What are the dates for the Autumn term 2024?
The Autumn Term 2024 runs from Tuesday, 3rd September to Monday, 16th December spanning 15 weeks. There's a half-term break from Monday, 28th October to Friday, 1st November.
What are the dates for the Spring Term in 2025?
The Spring Term 2025 extends from Monday, 6th January to Friday, 4th April, lasting for 12 weeks. There is a half-term break from Monday, 17th February to Friday, 21st February.
What are the dates for the Summer Term in 2025?
The Summer Term 2025 extends from Tuesday, 22nd April to Friday, 18th July, lasting for 12 weeks. There is a May bank holiday on Monday 5th May and a half-term break from Monday, 26th May to Friday, 30th May.
Get in touch
Warren Playgroup, Church House, Church Lane, Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9NY
Telephone: 01273 495076
Email: [email protected]
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