A Soft Start to the Day
We recognise that not every child finds it easy to begin the school day immediately. Some pupils benefit from a soft start – a gentle and supportive beginning that helps them feel settled and ready to learn.
Cub provides this important space, allowing pupils time to regulate their emotions, build confidence and transition positively into their school day.
What Happens in Cub?
Sessions in Cub follow a nurture-based approach, with activities designed to support key areas of social and emotional development, including:
- taking turns and sharing
- building friendships and positive relationships
- developing trust with adults and peers
- learning and practising good manners
- understanding and managing behaviour
- supporting transitions around school
- developing fine motor skills
Sessions take place in small groups, allowing pupils to receive personalised support and build positive relationships with others.
Structured Sessions with Purpose
Pupils take part in a range of engaging activities designed to support communication, cooperation and confidence.
Activities may include:
- board games and cooperative games
- creative art activities
- construction and building tasks
- practical life skills
- cooking activities, where pupils prepare food to share or take home
These activities encourage teamwork, independence and problem-solving while helping pupils feel successful and supported.
The Impact
The nurture approach used in Cub supports pupils in developing the social and emotional skills they need to engage successfully with learning and school life.
Through their time in Cub, pupils can:
- develop confidence and self-esteem
- build positive relationships with peers and adults
- learn strategies to manage emotions and behaviour
- feel more settled and ready to learn
Whether it is easing into the day with a calm activity, learning to work as part of a team, or having a safe space to reflect and reset, Cub plays an important role in supporting pupils’ wellbeing.
At Larwood School, we are committed to ensuring every child receives the support they need to flourish, and the Cub Nurture Room is one of the ways we achieve this.