Roots Federation

Looking forward to sharing our approach to SEND at the nmtmagazine show in Excel today.

We’re pleased to announce that Gemma Williamson will be speaking at the Nursery Managers Show later this month.
Gemma will be sharing her insights and expertise with early years professionals from across the country.
 

A message from Gemma:
“I’m really looking forward to joining so many passionate early years professionals to talk about something very close to my heart — Supporting Every Child: Insights from SEND Providers at Nursery Management Today. 

For me, supporting every child means seeing the whole child, their strengths, their individuality, their story, regardless of need. 

One mantra I’ll be sharing is that every child deserves to be supported as a whole, not defined by labels or limitations.

It’s such a privilege to be part of a community that continually strives to create inclusive, nurturing environments where every child can thrive💚”

Celebrating Excellence: Heath Lane Nursery School's National Teaching Award!

We're incredibly proud to announce that Heath Lane Nursery School has been awarded a Bronze in the The Pearson National Teaching Awards. This recognition celebrates our team's dedication to providing outstanding early years education.

This award reflects Roots Federation commitment to educational excellence and the exceptional work our staff deliver every day. Heath Lane and our other schools continues to demonstrate why they're a shining example of early years education at its finest.

Congratulations to the entire Heath Lane team - this recognition is thoroughly deserved and reflects your passion for nurturing young minds.

Proud to be part of a federation that consistently puts children first and strives for excellence in everything we do.

Celebrating Change and Growth at Roots Federation!

We recently bid a fond farewell to Hayley Yendell as she embarks on her new journey as an infant headteacher. Together with Gemma Williamson, Hayley has been instrumental in building Roots Federation into what it is today - a thriving community of three schools and a portfolio of consultancy work committed to educational excellence.

While change brings new challenges, it also opens doors to fresh opportunities. Our federation continues to grow stronger, putting children at the heart of every decision and maintaining our commitment to delivering outstanding early years education.

We're proud of what we've achieved together and excited about our next chapter. Our mission remains clear: to shape future generations, nurture a love for learning, and cultivate curiosity in every child across our schools.

Congratulations Hayley - thank you for your dedication to Roots Federation. Here's to new beginnings!

We are honored to receive this award, which reflects our unwavering commitment to inclusive practice. At Roots Federation, inclusion isn’t just a word — it underpins everything we do. A big thank you for the recognition to The SEND Awards and a huge well done to all others recognised in these awards! ⭐️💫

Congratulations to our 2025 SEND Awards winners Muriel Green Nursery School for Inclusion in Early Years.

Muriel Green Nursery is a maintained nursery school and day care located in St Albans, Hertfordshire. At the heart of their provision is the embedding of inclusive practice for all. They ensure that “SEND is everyone’s business”, offering training to all staff, regardless of role. In addition, they have a dedicated SENDCo, an Inclusion Leader, and two SEND Leads to ensure expert leadership in SEND provision. The Nursery seeks to ensure that every child’s needs are not just met but fully embraced, enabling each child to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Find out more: https://www.murielgreen.herts.sch.uk/

Introducing Chloe Reade - Our Deputy Day Care Manager & SEND Lead

Ever since Chloe started her journey in 2015, she’s been making an impact in the world of childcare with her enthusiasm and genuine love for kids. From her early days as a children’s entertainer in a soft play centre, Chloe has mastered the art of captivating young hearts, bringing joy and laughter to each child she meets.

At Muriel Green, Chloe grew through the ranks from an Early Years Practitioner to a trusted member of our senior leadership team. Her knack for understanding child development, combined with her strategic approach, has made her indispensable!

Aside from her hands-on work with children, Chloe has become a Governor for the Roots Federation, where she continues to make a positive impact on children’s education and community engagement.

A huge thanks to Chloe for everything she brings to our federation & settings.

Today is primary school allocation day in Hertfordshire: the first round of allocations for children who have applied for a reception place. Many of you will be delighted with your allocation and we will celebrate with you! 🥳

For those of you who have not been allocated your school of choice here is what you can do:

✅ Accept the offered school-this does not mean that you cannot pursue other options but means that a place has been secured for September.

👀 Consider the offered school - whilst it is not necessarily a school you have chosen you might be pleasantly surprised! Look at their website and book a tour.

🤞Stay on the continuing interest list at your chosen school - remember this is just the first round.

😀Remain positive - remember your child/children will take their lead from you. Any journey in life requires positivity and resilience - model this for your child as you reflect on what to do next.

There are so any fantastic schools out there-each with their own unique strengths-to support your child to flourish on this next part of their exciting, educational journey...

Eid Mubarak to all of our families and local communities who are celebrating today🌙✨

We are absolutely thrilled to see that Electric Umbrella have made it through to the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent! Their passion, talent, and dedication inspire the children in our schools, and today, they have shone brightly on a national stage. They relentlessly break down barriers and showcase the power of inclusivity in the arts. Roots Federation will be cheering you on! Go Electric Umbrella! 🌟🎶👏

GOLDEN BUZZER act Electric Umbrella LIGHT Up the stage with original song | Auditions | BGT 2025 No rainy days here!Charity group Electric Umbrella are like a ray of sunshine on the stage as they perform their uplifting original song, 'Acceptance' – scor...

🌱✨ Bringing Books to Life! 📚

The children at Oxhey Nursery School are immersing themselves in “Erol’s Garden” by planting their own little gardens. This hands-on learning fosters a love for stories and nature, celebrating growth and curiosity. Let’s nurture their exploration together! 🌿