Our Ethos.
The ethos of the Playgroup has always been for each child to have fun first and foremost whilst making friends and increasing social skills. We also strive to provide a safe and friendly environment, structured to prepare children for later educational experiences. Welwyn Under Fives Playgroup follows all government guidelines on curriculum and standards of care and we are subject to regular Ofsted inspections to ensure that these levels are consistently maintained.

Funding.
Fees are payable every half term. Children of age 3 and above are funded by the Government - this is paid directly to the playgroup and does not need to be individually claimed by the families. Funding can also be obtained for those families in receipt of benefits such as child tax credit and working tax credit. Fees and funding are usually sufficient to cover basic running costs. Fundraising by committee, staff and parents helps to pay for extra items to bring more enjoyment to learning through play.

Fundraising.
We undertake a fundraising activity every term. These take the form of Easter Fairs, Christmas Fairs (coinciding with events at Welwyn St. Mary's primary school to take advantage higher attendance), Coffee Mornings & raffle, a stall at the Street Market during Welwyn Festival Week and a sponsored Trike Ride. We take part in Welwyn Festival Week, dressing up for the themed parade. We always welcome suggestions from parents who may think of other ideas for fundraising activities.

The Annual Sponsored Trike Ride.
Once a year, usually in the summer term, the children take part in a sponsored Trike Ride to raise valuable funds for the Playgroup. Supporters are invited to encourage the children and the event has been covered by the local press. All children receive a certificate and a reward, such as a lolly. The children cycle around a large tree in Welwyn St. Mary’s playground. Laps are not counted as it is the participation that is important and it provides the setting for an enjoyable and informal social occasion.

Day-to-day Activities.
Our planning is carried out to ensure that activities cover the 6 main areas of learning.
These are: Personal, Social & Emotional Development | Communication, Language & Literacy | Mathematical Development | Knowledge & Understanding of the World | Physical Development | Creative Development