December Newsletter

Hello and season’s greetings to you all. As we approach the Christmas break, there is a real buzz around the Nursery as children start to enjoy all the sights and sounds of the festive period.

While it is a time of great joy, we are also a little bit sad to be saying goodbye to Philippa, who will be retiring this month. Philippa is a much-loved and valued member of the Highwood team, so we will be sorry to see her leave. However, we thank her for her hard work and dedication, and we also wish her a very happy retirement.

Please be reminded that we will be closing at 3:30pm on Friday 16 December. Therefore, you may need to plan changes to your usual routine.

On behalf of all the staff here at Highwood, I wish you and your whole family a very happy Christmas. We will very much look forward to welcoming you and your child back in the new year.

Best wishes,
Sarah Bower
Nursery Manager


Winter clothing

At Highwood we believe it is beneficial for children to have access to the outdoors every day. Therefore, please be reminded to deliver your child to nursery with adequate and appropriate clothing during the winter months. Although we do have some spares, welly boots, rain suits and warm coats and hats, plus spare clothing labelled with your child’s name, are essential.

Winter weather

During winter it is sensible to be prepared for adverse weather conditions, including rain and snow. There may also be hazards posed by ice. Rest assured, we will do our utmost to keep you informed of any issues through Famly. Please ensure you keep your contact details up-to-date.

Winter illnesses

Please remember that if your child is unwell or requires regular medication such as Calpol, then please keep them at home so we can prevent illness spreading. Indeed, it is an Ofsted requirement that we prevent the spread of infections. As a result, we have the right to not accept children whom we feel have a contagious illness.


Christmas lunch

Children who usually have a hot lunch will enjoy a Christmas lunch on Wednesday 14 December. This will comprise roast chicken, roast potatoes, peas and maple orange carrots, followed by ginger cake and custard. If your child usually brings a lunchbox, please provide this as usual.

Father Christmas

Father Christmas is looking forward to visiting the Nursery in the morning of Friday 16 December, during the Children’s Christmas parties. Please see your Famly calendar for more details.

Knights Lodge visit

Children who usually have a hot lunch will enjoy a Christmas lunch on Wednesday 14 December. This will comprise roast chicken, roast potatoes, peas and maple orange carrots, followed by ginger cake and custard. If your child usually brings a lunchbox, please provide this as usual.

Children in Need

Thank you for your Children in Need donations. The children enjoyed lots of activities during the week. These included mark-making, using playdough and playing with Tuff Trays.