Our approach
Bexley Bears Preschool is a friendly, community-based preschool where children feel safe, known and cared for. We take time to build strong relationships, so every child feels confident to explore, play and learn.
We believe children learn best through hands-on experiences—supported by attentive adults who listen, encourage curiosity and help children take their next steps.
Tish
Early Years Provider P.F.A
Simone
Lead Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
Yvonne
Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
Level 3 CACHE
Mary
Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
Becky
Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
Debbie
Playworker P.F.A
Tracy
SEN Assistant P.F.A
Kelly
Nursery Manager - Bexleyheath P.F.A
Kay
Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
Suada
Playworker P.F.A
Laura
Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
Daisie
Nursery Practitioner P.F.A
A typical day at Bexley Bears
Children are welcomed warmly and supported to settle quickly into engaging activities.
We include a balance of
- free play and child-led exploration
- small group times (stories, songs, early language)
- creative and messy play
- outdoor learning
- mealtimes/snacks that encourage independence
Supporting children’s independence
We gently encourage children to “have a go” and develop confidence—whether that’s pouring drinks at snack time, choosing activities, or helping to tidy up.
- Children are encouraged to try things for themselves in a supportive, pressure-free way, helping them build confidence at their own pace.
- Everyday routines, such as pouring drinks at snack time, help children develop coordination, independence and pride in what they can do.
- Children are given choices throughout the day, allowing them to select activities that interest them and develop decision-making skills.
- Helping to tidy up teaches responsibility and teamwork, while showing children they play an important role in their learning environment.
- Staff offer gentle guidance and praise, stepping in only when needed, so children feel safe to “have a go” without fear of getting it wrong.
- These small but meaningful opportunities support children’s self-esteem and prepare them confidently for the next stage of learning, including school.
Healthy habits
We promote good hygiene routines and talk with children about healthy choices. Ofsted noted strong practice around handwashing and healthy lifestyle messages, including support for good oral health. Ofsted report
- Children are supported to follow good hygiene routines throughout the day, including regular and thorough handwashing at appropriate times.
- Staff model and reinforce hygiene practices, helping children understand why keeping clean is important for their health and wellbeing.
- Healthy lifestyle messages are woven into everyday conversations, supporting children to make positive choices in an age-appropriate way.
- Children learn about looking after their bodies through routines linked to food, cleanliness and self-care.
- Good oral health is promoted through discussions about tooth brushing, healthy snacks and the impact of sugary foods and drinks.
- These consistent routines help children develop lifelong habits that support their physical health, independence and self-confidence.
Settling In & What to Bring
Starting preschool is a big step for both children and parents, and we take great care to make this transition as calm, positive and reassuring as possible. Our team works closely with families to ensure every child feels safe, settled and confident from the very beginning.
We support you and your child with:
- A friendly visit and informal chat to get to know you and your child
- A gentle, flexible settling-in plan tailored to your child’s needs
- Regular updates so you feel informed and reassured
- Open, ongoing communication with our experienced team
What to Bring
- To help your child feel comfortable and prepared for their day, please provide:
- A named water bottle
- A set of spare clothes (clearly labelled)
- Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing
- Nappies or pull-ups and wipes, if required
