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Doncaster Deaf Trust is now The Carr Fenton Foundation Read more

What we do

We support every child to learn, communicate and grow

Learning at Little Learners is shaped by curiosity and care. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework – the national standard for childcare and early education – but our approach is flexible, creative and rooted in play.

Our practitioners plan activities that are purposeful and responsive, encouraging children to explore ideas, ask questions and build independence at their own pace.

Want to get to know our Forest School?

Our Forest School gives children aged three and over the chance to explore, experiment and connect with nature in a safe, inspiring outdoor setting.

An inclusive learning community

Little Learners is open to all and recognised by Doncaster Local Authority as a provider of enhanced SEND provision. Our practitioners understand that every child learns differently. Using the graduated approach, we tailor activities, routines and environments so that all children can thrive.

When a child needs extra support, we work closely with parents, health visitors and specialists to agree individual targets and track progress carefully – celebrating every small step.

Our curriculum in action

Every day brings new opportunities for discovery. Children learn through a balance of play-based exploration and gently guided experiences that nurture their confidence, language and imagination. We focus on the seven EYFS areas of learning:

  • Personal, Social & Emotional Development
  • Physical Development
  • Communication & Language
  • Literacy
  • Mathematics
  • Understanding the World
  • Expressive Arts & Design

These areas form the foundation for lifelong learning, and we make sure every child can access them no matter their starting point.

Our facilities and environment

Every space is thoughtfully planned to balance safety, creativity and freedom – helping children feel happy and capable, wherever they are. Set within the Foundation’s campus, our nursery offers:

  • Secure, age-appropriate outdoor play areas
  • A modern sensory room for exploration and communication
  • Bright, open-plan spaces designed for inclusivity and comfort
    Convenient parent parking and drop-off zones

Rooms for every age group

Our nursery is designed to grow with your child – from first steps to school readiness. Each of our ten age-based rooms offers the right mix of security, challenge and excitement, helping children learn and play alongside others at a similar stage.

Baby Unit (0–2 years)

Caterpillars Rooms
A calm, nurturing environment for our youngest children. Here, babies build secure attachments and explore the world through sensory play, music and gentle routines.

Butterflies Room
As mobility and communication skills develop, this room encourages independence through early language, movement and discovery.

Toddler Rooms (2–3 years)

Ladybirds, Bumblebees & Fireflies
These rooms are full of energy, creativity and social learning. We encourage toddlers to experiment, solve problems and develop friendships through stories, construction, imaginative play and outdoor adventures. Our practitioners use open-ended resources and positive reinforcement to build confidence, curiosity and early communication.

Pre-School (3–5 years)

Grasshoppers, Dragonflies & Crickets
Pre-schoolers are active learners, ready to take on new challenges. We prepare them for school by developing early literacy and numeracy, teamwork and resilience. Learning is hands-on and purposeful – from counting games and story circles to Forest School sessions and creative projects that make every day different.

Forest School

Our Forest School gives children aged three and over the chance to explore, experiment and connect with nature in a safe, inspiring outdoor setting.

Safeguarding

At our nursery, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care.

We follow strict safeguarding policies and procedures in line with local and national guidelines to ensure that children are safe, secure, and protected from harm.

All staff undergo a thorough recruitment process, including enhanced DBS checks and receive ongoing training in safeguarding, first aid, and health & safety.  We have designated Safeguarding Leads responsible for overseeing all safeguarding matters. We encourage parents and carers to share any concerns with us, no matter how small. All concerns are taken seriously and handled confidentially. Our Safeguarding Leads are Natalie Allison, Emily Plant and Beth Plumtree.

Our full Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available to view online. If you would like to discuss this further or speak to our Safeguarding Lead, please contact us.

natalie.allison@thecarrfentonfoundation.org.uk