Our group is led by Mrs Sam Read -SENDCo and Early Years Leader, along with a skilled team of learning support assistants. We also offer specialist support from a Speech and Language Therapist, who focuses on the individual needs of each child. We provide a high-quality, language-rich pre-school curriculum, along with tailored support programmes for children living in the Waterside and Totton areas. Children move on to a variety of partner schools in the academic year they turn five.

A Positive Approach to Speech and Language

More and more individuals are facing speech, language, and communication difficulties. These challenges can significantly impact many areas of life. We understand that for children and families dealing with these difficulties, life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming. Therefore, we believe that early intervention is key to helping children achieve their best outcomes. When we understand and address a child's speech and language needs, we can make great strides together. With careful intervention and a language-rich environment, much can be accomplished.

In the ELG, we are fortunate to work with a small group of children at a time. This allows us to really get to know each child and respond to their individual needs. We recognise that all the children attending our ELG have unique qualities and abilities. We strive to build their confidence and enhance their skills by improving their speech and language. Our goal is to help children feel less confused and frustrated, enabling them to face challenges and seize the wonderful opportunities life has to offer.

Please click this text to find out about Our Owls Curriculum.

Our Facilities

Our spacious classroom is well-equipped and organised for pre-school learning, and we share an outdoor area with various equipment and activities. The school grounds include a small wooded area and a garden, which are excellent for helping children learn about the world.

We have child-sized toilets and washbasins next to our classroom, which encourage independence and self-care skills. For children who wear nappies, we provide a changing area. We discuss any personal needs with parents individually and are happy to support routines such as toilet training when children are ready.

Practical Information and Admissions

The ELG operates five mornings each week, with each session lasting three hours from 9.15 am to 12.15 pm.

Typically, children attend three mornings a week and continue to attend their local pre-school or nursery for their additional sessions. This arrangement helps them develop their social skills and often allows them to make friends with peers they will meet in school.

Children joining the ELG are first seen by Speech and Language Therapists in a clinic setting. The therapists assess whether a child may benefit from attending and if they believe a child is suitable, they will make a referral to us. However, this does not guarantee a place. We hold an admissions morning (usually in June) when all referred children are invited to attend a session with their parents. These sessions allow our team to meet the children and determine which ones are most suited for a place at our setting. There is high demand for these places, and we are often over-subscribed. Children who do not secure a place will continue to receive support from the Speech and Language Service. Those who are accepted will be contacted by Mrs Read with details of their attendance days, followed by a series of induction activities to prepare for starting in September.