Early Years - Gateways School

NEXT STEPS Prep School Ages 5-11

Why Littlegates?

In recent years the Government has called for more formal, structured learning in England's nurseries and playgroups and advocated schools as the best place for this. This is because it offers a head-start to a child's formal education and with seamless transition, it provides an excellent platform into Reception and Year 1. Our outstanding Early Years provision was recently recognised at the Nursery World Awards where Gateways School were awarded the 'Best Early Years provision in school'.

How To Apply

Welcome to Littlegates!

Welcome to Littlegates, the home of our Early Years classes; Pre-Reception and Reception. Littlegates is filled with busy, happy children engaged in purposeful learning opportunities enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential, in a safe and secure environment. But don’t take my word for it, come and see for yourself!

Mrs Carol Bartle - Head of Early Years

Head of Early Years

Mrs Carol Bartle - Head of Early Years

A Day in the life of ...

Luca in Early Years

8:20am

Mummy and daddy drop me off at Littlegates in the morning. I put my name card up and unpack my belongings for the day ahead. Mrs Watford rings the bell at 8.40am which means it’s time to take the register and pick a star helper.

9.00am

We start the day with our phonics lessons. We learn a new sound each day; Mrs Watford teaches me new sounds and I learn to write words. My favourite part is completing the workbook.

11.00am

At 11 o'clock we go to the field for break time. I get to play on the equipment with my friends and I also get to see my year 5 buddy. I like playing basketball with my friends.

12.00pm

At 11.30am we have our lunch in the dining room. After lunch time we have a maths lesson; we do lots of fun activities in maths. Today we are making amounts to 5 and sing a counting song. After Maths, we then go and play outside with the rest of Prep School.

1.30pm

Mrs Watford listens to me reading a book. We talk about the pictures and I read new words. I get to take the book home to read to my mummy and daddy.

2.30pm

Every week we have an art lesson. I enjoy painting, drawing and creating. We put our art work up in the classroom for everyone to see. I really enjoyed making a paper snake.

3.00pm

At 3 o’clock we get ready for home time. Today I have an after school rugby club so I get changed into my PE kit. We learn lots of new skills and I enjoy having fun with my friends.

What's happening in Littlegates?

LATEST NEWS

4th April 2025

Cherryvine – Spring 25

Below is a link to our Spring term issue of Cherryvine. In this issue, we focus on academic leadership and chat with our Deputy Heads, Mrs Prince and Mrs Carver.  We also...

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18th December 2024

Cherryvine – Autumn 24...

Below is a link to our Autumn term issue of Cherryvine. In this issue, we focus on languages, enrichment as well as a round up of this term’s trips and events. Enjoy...

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1st October 2024

Nursery World Award winners...

We are delighted to announce that Gateways have been awarded the ‘Best in School’ for our Early Years provision at the prestigious 2024 Nursery World Awards. Having been Nursery World Award finalists...

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