This set of six rechargeable torches is a versatile and easy-to-use resource.
With a two-hour battery life, easy-to-read battery-life indicators and a docking station which fully recharges the torches in up to four hours, they are ideal for use in early years settings and classrooms. Deputy headteacher Sue Martin says, 'As I have experienced the last-minute scrabble to find batteries ready for a class, I love the idea that I won't have to rush out to buy batteries the night before a lesson, or risk torches running out mid-investigation. Recharging batteries can be a very time- consuming and expensive process for large numbers of devices, but here all six torches can be charged together, saving lots of time.'
She often uses the torches for colour mixing experiments and adds, 'I was able to mix primary colours to produce secondary colours and pure white light, which is very difficult to do convincingly with ordinary torches. The intensity of the light produced makes it good for casting shadows.'
The torches have been designed so they can be used by early years children upwards. They are lightweight and easy to hold and to turn on and off. Jen Clarke from Kirkstead School in Derbyshire adds, 'The torches are attractive to look at and children in my class always want to investigate light and shadow with them.
'They produce a really bright light, which is fantastic during investigation time, as even in a bright room the torches produce the desired effect in class. The large switch makes it easy for the smallest hands to use them and even children with motor skills difficulties feel confident that they can work independently.'
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Tune Into ... Listening Games, Yellow Door
Launched this year, the 'Tune into ...' series offers exciting games to get children actively involved with listening, to help them to discriminate between sounds. The games in each pack have clear photographs and real sound effects.
Willow Range, TTS Group
This fabulous range of natural willow huts and dens enables early years settings to create their own mini woodland retreats. Each hut is individually made using traditional weaving techniques, so they all have a unique character.
FINALISTS
Basic Skills Pack, Galt Educational
Playscope Communication and Literacy Set, Play to Z
Stone Walls, TTS Group
CRITERION
Open to early years resources and equipment that support children's learning, development and enjoyment in the Early Years Foundation Stage. New launches should have first been offered for sale since January 2009.