formally
The Barn
The Barn is a special part of Hillside Gems, set within the peaceful grounds of a quiet 11th-century church in a small, caring community.
Preschoolers from our nurseries are invited to join The Barn sessions — a unique space designed to spark independence, confidence and school readiness. Here, children use preschool-specific tools, take part in hands-on learning and explore the natural environment as they prepare for their next adventure: big school.
Within walking distance, there is a stunning nature park with streams, walking paths, woodland spaces and a beautiful river, offering rich opportunities for children to explore, discover and connect with the natural world.
Ages: 3 +
Number of places: 16
For those already enrolled at Little Waltham or Terling
Opening Hours:
Wednesdays: 9- 3pm
Thursdays: 9- 3pm
Location:
St Martin's Church
Brook Hill
Little Waltham
Essex
CM3 3LJ
Operational Hours
When are we open?
Wednesdays: 9 - 3pm
Thursdays: 9- 3pm
What We Offer at The Barn
Outdoor Learning at the Barn Outdoor learning is part of every day, whatever the weather. We see all seasons as opportunities for exploration, helping children build confidence, resilience and a connection to the natural world. Our Barn sessions are guided by storytelling and the children’s interests, creating meaningful experiences that nurture curiosity, independence and a strong sense of self.
Healthy Eating At Hillside Gems, we support children to develop healthy eating habits from an early age. We provide snacks that are low in sugar and free from artificial additives, helping to promote steady energy and overall wellbeing. We work in partnership with parents to encourage healthy, balanced packed lunches, ensuring children’s bodies are nourished and supported to grow, learn and thrive.
Emotional Well-being: Our First Priority At Hillside, emotional health is not an add-on — it’s the foundation of everything we do. Our 5 Gems Values are carefully woven into each day to give children the language, strategies, and confidence to handle big feelings. From Gem 1’s Emotional Regulation & Positivity to Gem 4’s Kindness & Supportiveness, children don’t just hear about well-being, they practise it: calming themselves after upset, showing generosity in play, collaborating with peers, and taking responsibility as part of our community. This intentional, teacher-led approach means your child learns to shine not just academically, but emotionally too.
Special Educational Needs & Inclusion At Hillside, every child is valued as a unique learner, and our inclusive approach ensures that all children receive the support they need to thrive. Our on-site SENCO, Adam, holds a Level 7 qualification in Special Educational Needs Coordination and is dedicated to creating an environment where all children, including those with additional needs, feel safe, supported and empowered. Adam works closely with families, staff and external professionals to provide tailored strategies, early interventions and individualised support.
Makaton and Visual Cues * Makaton: We use a child-friendly communication approach that pairs speech with simple signs and symbols. This strategy supports children in developing language skills, expression, and understanding instructions. It enhances early language development, reduces frustration, and makes learning more engaging through songs and stories. * Visual Cues: We use visual timetables and cues to create a clear, structured daily routine. Visual cues help children feel secure, transition smoothly between activities, and build independence. Visuals benefit all learners, including those with additional needs or English as an Additional Language (EAL).
Physical Development Programme We see physical development as a cornerstone of holistic education, fostering a child’s independence, self-regulation, and confidence. Our physical development programme ensures that individual children are able to make progress based on their starting points. We integrate movement with problem-solving, emotional growth, social interactions and self-care.
Phonics in Everyday Learning At Gemstones Nursery School, early phonics is woven into play, conversations, and storytelling, making learning effortless and fun. With over a decade of experience as a Phonics Lead, the founder ensures that children explore sounds through songs, rhymes, movement, and sensory play. Educators naturally integrate phonics into daily activities, fostering confident early readers with a love for language.
Our Lovely Barn Team
Rebecca H
Barn Manager
Kerri
Outdoor Learning Teacher
Susie
Director
Adam
Lead SENDCO
& Director
