The Early Years Foundation stage

Pupils in their first year of school are taught through this broad balanced curriculum, which emphasises first hand learning activities by our skilled teachers and support assistants.  We follow the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage. The curriculum is divided into seven areas of learning.  The three Prime Areas are:-

• Personal, Social and Emotional development
• Physical Development
• Communication and Language

And the four Specific Areas are:-

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

Learning

Learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage is carefully planned to include a balance of child-led activities (where children are able to select their own learning, explore and practice skills and enjoy activities in an independent way. and adult directed activities (where specific skills are taught to the children in 1:1, small and large group sessions).  All the children take part in a daily phonics session.  Learning takes place both indoors and outdoors and gives many opportunities for children to develop their independence and resilience.

Assessment

In the final term of the year in which the child reaches age five, the EYFS Profile will be completed for each child.  Each child’s level of development must be assessed against the early learning goals. The Class Teacher will indicate whether children are meeting expected levels of development, or if they are not yet reaching expected levels (‘emerging’). 

Home Links

Above all, we believe it is important to nurture a strong partnership with parents/carers from the onset and there are opportunities for parents/carers to contribute to their child's learning journey through the online 'Tapestry' tool.  We use Mavellous Me to send a snapshot of the learning and activities that have been happening to help provide a talking point at home. 

The Reception Class page shows some of the leaning we have been doing and gives some tips and suggestions for how you can help at home.

Learning Through Doing