Welcome to our learning space for children aged 5 to 7 — a warm, playful, and nurturing environment where young learners are gently supported as they begin their journey into independence.
This group is designed as a soft and mindful introduction to our wider community. Children are welcome to join from the September following their fifth birthday, stepping into a space that values care, curiosity, and connection above all else.
For many children, this is their first experience of learning away from home or familiar caregivers. We hold this transition with great care.
Our focus is on creating a sense of safety and belonging — a place where children can take small, confident steps towards autonomy, supported by trusted adults and a consistent daily rhythm.
Learning here is joyful, social, and hands-on. Through play, stories, exploration, and creative activities, children begin to discover who they are as learners and how they fit within a group.
Every child arrives with their own needs, pace, and personality. We work flexibly and collaboratively with families, adapting our approach so each child feels seen, understood, and supported.
While we encourage children to attend independently, we understand that some may need extra reassurance. We are always happy to discuss individual settling-in plans and gentle transition strategies that work for your child and your family.
This group also forms a natural bridge into our middle group, helping children feel confident and ready to move on around the ages of 7 to 8.
Our days follow a familiar and reassuring structure, balancing literacy and numeracy with creativity, movement, nature, and imagination. Learning happens both indoors and outdoors, with sessions held at the Birchcliffe Centre and in the nearby Nutclough Woods.
Through storytelling, art, science, seasonal crafts, and imaginative play, children develop early academic skills while building confidence, friendships, and a love of learning.
Even at this young age, children are introduced to the foundations of democratic learning.
Through show-and-tell, group discussions, and weekly democratic meetings, they practise listening, sharing ideas, and taking turns — learning that their voice matters and that community is something we create together.
Our 5–7 years group is led by Laura, who is a parent with two children at the learning community. She is a forest school practitioner and qualified primary school teacher with over 15 years’ experience. Laura has worked across a wide range of learning environments, supporting children throughout the key stages in both alternative education and outdoor settings.
Her calm, thoughtful, and playful approach helps children feel safe, confident, and curious as they grow.
You can find out more about Laura on our Educators page.
For any queries, settling-in conversations, or bookings, please contact:
laura@hebdenbridgelc.co.uk
Hours:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 9:30am – 3:10pm
Flexible attendance – 1, 2, or 3 days per week.
Morning routine
Literacy with Laura
Break
The World Today/Show and Tell with Laura
Lunch Break
Art with Anisha
Morning routine
Science with Gemma
Break
‘Seasonal Handicrafts’ with Emma
Lunch Break
Creative Writing with Laura
Morning routine
Numeracy with Laura
Break
Topic with Laura
Lunch Break
Democratic Meeting and Imaginature with Laura
We are an Ofsted-registered childcare provider. There are various means of support available to help cover fees from tax-free childcare, working tax credits, childcare vouchers and other sources.
Sessions take place at the Birchcliffe Centre and in Nutclough Woods
For any queries, settling-in conversations, or try-outs please contact:
laura@hebdenbridgelc.co.uk
