A framework that focuses on 5 Holistic Concepts

1. Brain Development

Did you know 90% of brain growth happens in the early years? We practice mindfulness and engage in sensory play, exploring all 8 senses, understanding the importance of physical play. Every experience we offer fuels a child’s growing brain.

Eight senses – Sight, Hearing, Smell, Taste, Touch, Vestibular (Balance), Proprioception (Body awareness) and Interoception (Internal body awareness)

Watch a short video about sensory development

2. Self Expression

Building a sense of self and identity starts with developing a sense of self and creating confident communicators. Through storytelling, role-play, and music, we provide children with opportunities to build their confidence and skills to explore who they are.

3. Global responsibility

We expand children’s horizons through thrilling trips and our intergenerational project. By exploring cultural diversity, embracing everyone’s uniqueness, and through our ECO ethos, children learn to shape a healthier world, while connecting with local communities.

4. Enabling Environments

Step into a world of wonder! We create vibrant, stimulating environments that ignite children’s curiosity. Whether indoors or outside in our urban or traditional forest schools, every space sparks the senses and fuels imagination.

5. STEAM

We equip children for the future by diving into STEAM—science, technology, art, engineering, and math. We fuel creativity and problem-solving with hands-on woodwork and tool use.

Big hearts, open minds, great adventures!

Under the framework of these 5 Holistic concepts, we immerse every child in a rich, stimulating environment, providing them with a diverse range of experiences.

Our unique curriculum offers thrilling, hands-on adventures that spark curiosity and engagement, both within our setting and the local community.

Outdoor learning is woven into every day, turning each moment into an exciting opportunity for discovery and growth.

How we implement The DEN Curriculum

We implement our curriculum using our Road to Success. We blend a variety of learning methods with our 5 Holistic Concepts and Steps to Success, ensuring every child can unlock and exceed their full potential.

The Road to success is the path every child takes on their journey though nursery. Each room has a set of 10 tailored steps designed to guide the children in their developmental journey, ensuring they are well-prepared before moving onto their next adventure. This lays a solid foundation for their future learning and development.

The DEN learning methods

To ensure every child within our setting feels loved and valued, achieves their full potential and enjoys every moment along the way, we use the following learning methods:

Child Centred Learning

Adventure-based learning where curiosity takes the lead. Children chart their own paths, making choices that spark imagination and foster independence.

This journey encourages them to explore interests, face new challenges, and grow into confident, curious learners who find joy in every discovery.

Adult Supported Learning

Practitioners and children are true partners in the learning process, where adults ignite a passion for knowledge, spark excitement and introduce a sprinkle of fresh ideas.

Together, they set off on great adventures, with this collaboration nurturing a deep love of learning and empowering children to become confident explorers.

Collaborative Learning

Children embark on exciting adventures together, with their curious minds and boundless energy, supporting each other through every step.

Every day becomes a new chapter in their shared journeys, where they collaborate and cheer each other on. Each adventure is filled with learning, friendship and discovery as they explore the world around them hand in hand.

At The DEN nursery group, we are dedicated to creating an environment where every child can thrive and develop essential skills for a bright future. Thank you for being part of our community, and we look forward to the incredible journey ahead together.

Like the way we do things? Have a look at our nurseries
The DEN Nursery bears playing in the forest school