Investigation Hub and Discovery Hub at Deckham

Following on from the stories we have read about minibeasts and the garden, the children have enjoyed discovering real minibeasts in our outdoor area, including millipedes, worms and spiders. They have displayed fascination as they carefully handle these creatures and observe the way they move. Some of the children noticed that the millipede tickled their hands as it walked with all its legs!

Our Investigation Hub children looked at images of minibeasts and then explored using loose parts to create their own pictures of them. They created butterflies, ladybirds, spiders, snails and even one grasshopper! They discussed what each part was, using language such as “shell”, “wings”, and “legs”.

This week’s yoga session on Tuesday afternoon was themed around Moana and the ocean. Two of the new poses we learned were ‘boat pose’ and ‘warrior pose’. We also practised deep breathing by blowing the scarves away on the ocean. At the end of the session, the children enjoyed some calm time as they rested with their eye masks on.

This morning, some of our older children took part in the Gateshead Primary Schools Fun Run 2026. They did incredibly well and we are very proud of each and every one of them. The children showed fantastic determination and enthusiasm throughout the event, representing our Nursery beautifully. Well done!

Not wanting to miss out on the excitement back at Nursery, we organised our very own Bensham Grove Fun Run too! The children had so much fun running, jogging and cheering each other on around the sports hall. They demonstrated great listening skills, perseverance and confidence as they took part and it was lovely to see everyone encouraging their friends along the way.

We are so impressed with the children’s energy, participation and positive attitudes. There were lots of smiles, laughter and proud faces all around, making it the perfect way to end our half term. 

Sensory Hub

This week in the Sensory Hub, the children have enjoyed reading, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and have been learning all about the life cycle of a butterfly. The children have enjoyed mark making in the blue sand, using phrases such as “round and round”. We have had a lovely week with lots of sensory exploration and messy play, ending with the Fun Run. What a busy week of learning, full of fun!

Parents as Partners

Today (Friday 22nd May) is the last day of this half term. Nursery will be closed from Monday 25th – Friday 29th May. We will reopen on Monday 1st June.

Nursery will also be closed for one day on Friday 26th June for staff training.

We hope you all have a wonderful week. Please feel free to share your special moments from the half term holiday with us as an observation on Famly.

With thanks,

The Nursery Team