At Cranbrook Nursery, sustainability is at the heart of our early years practice. We believe that introducing sustainable values in the early years helps children understand how their actions today shape the world of tomorrow. By embedding environmental responsibility into everyday learning, we support children to grow into confident, environmentally conscious individuals.
Pictured above: Buttercup Barn’s allotment
Promoting sustainability in the early years
Sustainability in early years education is introduced through meaningful, hands-on experiences that encourage children to care for their environment, use resources responsibly, and reduce waste. At Cranbrook, we thoughtfully use recycled, reclaimed, and natural materials, supporting children to become creators rather than consumers.
This approach not only nurtures creativity and problem-solving but also helps children develop an early understanding of sustainability and environmental responsibility in a way that is practical, engaging, and age appropriate.
Learning through nature and outdoor experiences
Children learn best through exploration. Through outdoor learning, natural play experiences, and guided discussions, children develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world. These daily interactions help children understand the importance of protecting the environment and respecting the world around them.
By embedding sustainability into everyday nursery life, children begin to recognise that small actions, such as recycling, looking after our chickens, saving energy, and caring for plants can have a positive impact.
Ivy Cottage – Journey into Sustainability Award
Ivy Cottage Nursery in Horley is proud to have achieved The Curiosity Approach® Journey into Sustainability Award, recognising our commitment to embedding sustainable practice throughout the nursery environment.
Buttercup Barn – Woodland Trust Green Tree Schools Award
Buttercup Barn in Balcombe is proud to be recognised by the Woodland Trust Green Tree Schools Gold Award, celebrating our commitment to outdoor learning and environmental responsibility. Through time spent learning in our woodland, researching native trees, and creative projects inspired by nature, children have been actively involved in planting over 225 trees within the community, helping to build a lasting connection with the natural world.
Find out more about our sustainable practices here.