Hello, my name is Catherine Lanera, I am a fully qualified primary school teacher with over 20 years’ experience. I have also been a Nursery Manger, so I have a wealth of knowledge in Early Years Education. 

I have the wonderful privilege of leading Polka Dots Playgroup as part of my role as Family Support Worker here at Hope Community Foundation, working alongside a wonderful team of volunteers. 

We provide a range of games and fun activities to assist children in developing their pre-literacy and numeracy abilities. Youngsters listen to read-aloud stories, sing alphabet songs, discover rhymes that help them differentiate between sounds, and play with alphabet magnets. Children will develop invaluable social skills that will set them up for life.

Also, through my teacher-led activities; story-time questions, paper aeroplane competitions, or treasure hunts, children will learn essential problem-solving skills through puzzles, block games, board games, stacking rings, and sorting or colour-coding games. 

We also support parents, and model how to teach children through play. 

A playgroup provides an incredible opportunity for children to learn, thrive, and socialise. But I am sure you will find out that Polka Dots is much more than just a playgroup. 

My goal is to bring learning to life, helping the little ones to learn some of their Early Learning Goals and preparing them for Nursery.

I look forward to seeing you here!

Catherine