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Nursery and Pre-Prep
Moreton Hall Nursery
Experiential learning is a hands- Similarly, a role-play area themed as a post
on, active learning approach that office or supermarket allows children to develop
language, maths, and social skills through
encourages young children to imaginative and collaborative experiences. Only
engage with the world around the other day, a Pre-Prep child called out order
numbers in a makeshift fish and chip shop set
them. up in the role-play area!
In the context of the Early Years Foundation Experiential learning also supports holistic
Stage (EYFS), it plays a vital role in fostering development. It nurtures not only cognitive
curiosity, independence, and foundational skills but also emotional and social growth.
skills. Rather than relying solely on structured Children learn to work together, negotiate
instruction, experiential learning invites children roles, solve conflicts, and express their ideas
to explore, experiment, and discover through — developing confidence and resilience in the
direct experience. process. This aligns with our goal of supporting
the whole child, ensuring they are ready for the
At the heart of experiential learning is the belief next stage of education.
that children learn best when they are actively
involved in their learning. Here at Moreton, we Effective implementation of experiential learning
provide opportunities for play-based exploration, in the early years requires skilled practitioners
problem-solving, and real-life experiences. who can observe children closely, scaffold their
Activities such as outdoor play, role-play, cooking, learning, and provide a rich environment with
and nature walks allow children to develop open-ended materials and diverse experiences.
critical thinking and communication skills while It also requires a flexible, child-led approach.
connecting their learning to everyday life. Our experienced staff respond to children’s
interests and questions rather than following a
The EYFS framework supports experiential rigid curriculum, allowing the children’s interests
learning through its emphasis on the to guide the learning.
Characteristics of Effective Learning: playing
and exploring, active learning, and creating and Experiential learning is essential
thinking critically. These characteristics align to the EYFS at Moreton because
closely with experiential learning principles,
encouraging children to initiate activities, it honours how young children
persevere through challenges, and reflect on naturally learn—through doing,
their experiences.
exploring, and interacting. It
For example, a simple water play activity can creates meaningful, engaging
teach children concepts of volume, floating learning experiences that lay
and sinking, and cause and effect. By pouring,
measuring, and experimenting, they construct strong foundations for lifelong
knowledge in a meaningful, memorable way. learning and development.
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