S House

About Me

About Me
Hi, I’m Sadie — an Ofsted-registered childminder based in Upper Stratton, just off Beechcroft Road at Moonrakers Crossroads. I have around 18 years of experience and was graded GOOD in all areas at my last inspection in September 2019.

I live with my youngest daughter, aged 20, and our friendly pets — Maisie the Bichon Frise (hypoallergenic and great for allergy sufferers) and our two cats, Coco and Mabel.

My Setting
I provide a warm, welcoming “home from home” childcare service where children feel happy, safe, and valued. My downstairs is fully registered and includes a bright playroom, a cosy living/dining space, and a secure garden with outdoor toys, a mud kitchen, and a playhouse.

Following the EYFS
I follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework to support each child’s learning and development. This means I observe and plan for the seven areas of learning, tailoring activities to your child’s interests, abilities, and next steps. Learning is delivered in a fun, play-based way, so children are engaged and motivated while building important skills.

My Curriculum
My curriculum is flexible and varied, blending planned experiences with spontaneous opportunities that arise from the children’s ideas and curiosity. It covers all EYFS areas of learning, including:
• Communication and Language – promoting rich conversations, story times, and songs.
• Physical Development – encouraging both fine motor skills (cutting, threading, building) and gross motor skills (running, climbing, balancing).
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development – building confidence, independence, and positive relationships.
• Literacy – sharing books, mark making, and developing early reading skills.
• Mathematics – exploring numbers, shapes, patterns, and problem solving.
• Understanding the World – exploring nature, seasons, celebrations, and the local community.
• Expressive Arts and Design – enjoying arts and crafts, music, role play, and imaginative games.

Children’s interests and next steps shape our daily activities. We might go on outings to farms, forest school, parks, nature walks, feed the ducks, soft play, story and rhyme time, or toddler groups. At home, activities could include messy play, arts and crafts, cooking, baking, gardening, playdough, Lego, puzzles, role play, dressing up, theme days, and celebrating festivals and special occasions.

Getting School Ready
For children approaching school age, I place a strong focus on developing the skills they’ll need to make a confident start. This includes:
• Building independence in self-care (toileting, dressing, handwashing).
• Following routines and instructions.
• Developing listening, attention, and turn-taking skills.
• Encouraging early literacy and numeracy through play.
• Promoting resilience, problem-solving, and social skills.

Every day is different, fun, and full of opportunities to learn through play — helping each child grow into a confident, capable, and curious learner.