Old First Nursery School has one mixed-aged 3s and 4s classroom of 16 students. They all play and learn together in one class, led by one head teacher and one assistant teacher. Our mixed-age classroom creates a wonderful opportunity for the students to learn from and help one another. Typically, the class will include eight boys and eight girls, half of whom will turn three and half of whom will turn four by the end of the calendar year in which they begin the school year. 

Throughout the day, children can be found buttoning and zipping, building and climbing, chatting and problem solving, drawing and painting, writing and listening to stories, flipping through books, working on puzzles, cutting, gluing, riding tricycles, playing with baby dolls and engaging in process-oriented art projects. Our students love school and find great joy in spending their days at Old First. 

Creating a Positive Classroom Environment

Classroom rules are introduced organically as occasions for the rules arise. Additionally, the teachers work with the students to create a list of classroom rules. Rules are designed for the purpose of ensuring the safety and emotional well-being of the students, creating an atmosphere of friendship and respect, and taking care of the school materials.

A positive classroom environment is maintained by setting developmentally appropriate expectations, giving children the security of a dependable routine and following a play-based curriculum that allows opportunity for children to do what they enjoy.  The teachers put a lot of thought and care into every detail of the school experience including selection of classroom materials, curriculum and routines so as to create the best environment in which children can be successful and happy.  

Classroom rules are introduced organically as occasions for the rules arise. Additionally, the teachers work with the students to create a list of classroom rules. Rules are designed for the purpose of ensuring the safety and emotional well-being of the students, creating an atmosphere of friendship and respect, and taking care of the school materials.

Teachers are very conscientious about the effects of their words on the children and are experienced at using language that is clear, consistent and respectful to the children.  Any problematic behavior that arises is seen as an important teaching opportunity during which children can learn, grow and develop their social, communication and problem solving skills and see themselves as a valued part of a community. Teachers will let parents know about any issues that occur during the school day.