EYPS go to Pen Green

The Early Years Professionals who belong to the Staffordshire Network had the opportunity to see for themselves the nationally famous Pen Green Centre for children and their families in Corby recently.

We were all so impressed that many have put pen to paper (well, fingers to keyboards!) to express their thoughts and reflections.

The way we all reacted to this centre of excellence is best summed up in the words of the EYPs themselves…

"I'd read about this centre of excellence but really didn't know what to expect."

"As an Early Years Professional myself … I had always wanted to visit Pen Green"

"The day commenced with Dr Margy Whalley (Director of Research) greeting us all on arrival. During her lecture, her warmth and passion for early years work just oozed from her, which in turn sent inspirational vibes around the group."

"Pen Green began life in an old grammar school at the time of mass redundancies in the local steel industry. Opposition to the centre was strong, as many families remembered their 'bad' experiences at the school. However, determination won over the community."

"Many staff began as parent helpers and have worked their way up through qualifications."

"I was inspired by this sense of community and the obvious love and commitment by those we met. "

"The centre felt like it was the hub of the community."

"The centre offers many exciting opportunities and experiences through enabling environments, even we adults wanted to kick off our shoes and experience the beach area and the water shoots!"

"I was especially impressed with the use of space and how they allowed the children to shape it regularly."

"The centre itself is an inspiration - where children have the freedom to explore both indoors and out."

"We had advice and information that increased my own knowledge of schemas and pedagogical strategies."

"The talks in the afternoon were very informative and the group work was thought provoking."

"The whole day from start to finish was not only inspiring and educational but real fun and very enjoyable"

"Their planning and assessment procedures ensured individualised learning opportunities for all children attending."

"Keeping this all in check is their reflective use of written observations, alongside the use of digital cameras and video cameras to aid reflection and record children's development."

"The staff there have an ethos which you can sense before you even set foot inside the building."

"Overall these were the dedicated, knowledgeable and encouraging adults who supported each child's learning effectively."

"I would fully recommend anyone to visit the centre if they are fortunate enough to do so.....I had a fabulous day!"

View photos