Information

Security

A security key pad entry system is placed on the side entrance and pre-school doors to ensure access by authorised persons only. We require notification of who is authorised to collect your child from nursery.  Under no circumstances will a child be allowed to leave the premises unless it is with a previously identified, authorised person

Introductory Sessions

Before your child begins full days or sessions at The Bruce Nursery we would recommend that you and your child visit on several occasions for short introductory sessions.  You are encouraged to stay with your child until he or she settles after which time we would suggest that you leave for short periods until both you and your child are relaxed and comfortable in the nursery setting.  No charge is made for the introductory sessions.

Children learn very quickly that nursery is a fun, friendly place to be therefore the settling-in period is rarely as difficult as you might imagine it to be.

Daily Report Sheets

When your child is in Baby Room, First Steps, Tiny Two’s and Stepping Stones you will receive a daily report sheet detailing your child’s eating and sleeping patterns, fluid intake, toileting progress and information about the activities your child has participated in that day.  The nursery staff will, of course discuss your child’s day with you, however the daily report sheets are a useful reference to take home.

Sleep Times

Your child can use a cot, rocking chair or a small bed for their sleep times.  Each child has their own bed linen and are calmly settled for their sleep by the nursery staff.

Progress Reports

Each child at The Bruce Nursery, (at Birth to Three stage and Curriculum Framework stage), have their own portfolio which staff complete regularly to record your child’s milestones and achievements.  You will receive two progress reports per year detailing your child’s progress and development and you are welcome to view your child’s portfolio at any time.

Activity Planning

The nursery staff plan activities in advance in the Pre-school Room to cover all 5 areas of the Curriculum Framework which ensures each child receives a broad, balanced range of activities.  These plans are flexible and respond to your child’s individual interests and developmental stage.

Planning for children under 3 years old is less structured and responsive to each child’s needs and abilities.

Tooth Brushing

All children at The Bruce Nursery brush their teeth on a daily basis after snack and/or lunch.  Your child will be provided with their own toothbrush and toothpaste.

Illness

For the health and well being of all children attending The Bruce Nursery, your child should not come to nursery if they are suffering from an infectious illness. 

If your child suffers from a non-infectious illness or an allergy we will endeavour to accommodate any special requirements they may have.

Medication

Parental permission is required for all medication to be administered at The Bruce Nursery.

Promoting Positive Behaviour

Positive behaviour is promoted at The Bruce Nursery through praise and encouragement from the nursery staff.  Children receive little attention for negative behaviour, therefore they quickly realise that the positive behaviour will be rewarded.

Our staff will keep you fully informed if your child requires support in this area at any time.  If a pattern of behaviour causing more concern develops, we will discuss this with you and agree steps to move forward in the best interests of your child and the nursery.

Additional Needs

If your child requires extra support for any reason, either on a temporary or permanent basis, we will make every effort to provide this support.  The nursery staff are experienced at working closely with parents and other professionals such as Health Visitors, Speech and Language Therapists and Paediatricians to help your child reach their full potential.

What do I Bring?

Depending on our child’s age and stage of development you will need to provide:  formula or breast milk, nappies, soft indoor shoes, suitable outdoor clothing and a change of clothes.  If your child has a comfort toy, blanket or a dummy you should also bring these to nursery.

Clothing and Personal Property

Your child will be involved in messy activities at nursery and although the staff will encourage them to wear aprons whenever possible, we would advise that your child does not wear ‘good’ clothes to nursery as accidents can happen. It is helpful if you mark all your child’s belongings with their name as it can be difficult for our nursery staff to locate unnamed items.  You will receive a complimentary nursery bag for all your child’s property and clothing.

We would also recommend that your child does not bring toys from home as they do become upset if items become mislaid or broken.  Favourite books and comfort toys are of course always welcome.

Aberdeen City Council Education Department

The Bruce Nursery works in partnership with Aberdeen City Council Education Department to provide the pre-school curriculum for children aged 3 to 5 years.  Our Development Officer from the Education Department visits the nursery regularly to offer support to the nursery staff and children.

The Bruce Nursery conducts a thorough on-going self evaluation audit including parent’s and children’s questionnaires.  A development plan is then sent to the Education Department annually detailing the audit and the action plans for the coming year.

Spanish Teacher

Our visiting Spanish teacher introduces the children to Spanish through songs, games and stories making it a fun introduction to a new language for your child. The children thoroughly enjoy these lessons and are always keen to participate.  The French lessons are for children aged 3 to 5 years.

Music Therapist

Your child will have the opportunity to play a variety of musical instruments when our music therapist visits.  All children are encouraged to express themselves through the music. 

These music sessions are always lively and enjoyed enthusiastically by everyone.  Children from 3 years to 5 years participate in the music sessions. 

Mini Hot Shots Football Training

Our football coach attends the nursery once a week.  The children start off with a warm up, they then progress on to a variety of football skills from dribbling to scoring goals, then finish with the cool down.  It is a great way for children to go get involved with a different from of exercise.  The Mini Hot Shots are for all children aged 3-5 years.

Transition to Primary 1

Our nursery staff are aware of the important step a child takes when beginning Primary School therefore we ensure that each child is supported in this transition.

A developmental report is completed by our staff for your child’s Primary 1 teacher.  You will be given a copy of the report to read and comment on prior to your child’s school receiving it.

Parents Evenings

Parents Evenings are held once a year for all children in the Pre-school Room.  Although the nursery staff are available on a daily basis, this gives you the opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and transition to Primary 1 in a relaxed atmosphere on an individual basis. 

Nativity Play

Each Christmas the children in the Pre-school Room will perform a nativity play for their families.  Christmas is always an exciting time for children and they enjoy the opportunity to tell the Christmas story through their performance.

Graduation

A graduation party and ceremony is held each summer for all the children moving on to Primary School. This is a very proud day for everyone, although it can be emotional.