Early Years
In Reception we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework (EYFS). This sets out the learning, development and care within age related outcomes for children from birth to five years old. We strongly believe that a play based approach is the best and most effective method of teaching and learning. The children take the lead in their learning, and with careful and well considered interactions staff help to guide and support children to extend their knowledge and understanding.
The EYFS curriculum is split into two main areas, the prime, and the specific. The prime areas are; ‘Personal, Social and Emotional Development’; ‘Communication and Language’; and ‘Physical Development’. These areas lay the foundations for success in all other areas, and equip children with the skills to become life long learners. The specific areas are; ‘Literacy’; ‘Mathematics’; ‘Expressive Arts and Design’; and ‘Understanding the World’.
Literacy
Comprehension
By the end of their time in Reception, children will be able to talk about stories that have been read to them, and will be able to be able to retell familiar stories using their own words and recently introduced vocabulary. They will be able to make predictions about texts as they are being read, and talk about stories, non-fiction, rhymes and poems.
Word reading
The EYFS suggests that reading begins with the enjoyment of books and stories. Children should learn to handle books with care, and to repeat key phrases from familiar texts.. They will then begin to hear the initial sounds of words and know the sounds and names of the alphabet, before they are then able to read and understand simple sentences consistent with their phonic knowledge by sound-blending.
Writing
Children’s journey as writers begins with meaningful mark making. In time children will begin to write some identifiable letters and segment words into sounds, write some simple words and captions such as their name. They will then develop these skills in order to write simple sentences that can be read by others.
Maths
Number
Developing a good understanding of number is an essential skill for children to enable them to excel mathematically. In Reception we use ‘The Numberblocks’ to help children to make sense of number, and understand the the composition of them. They are expected to be able to find the total number of objects in two groups, have a deep understanding of numbers to 10, subitise up to 5, and recall automatically number bonds to 15, 10 and double facts.
Numerical patterns
Children’s understanding of numerical pattern begins with children using counting vocabulary out of context. They should then recite some number names in sequence, and understand that things change when you add something or take something away. Children will then begin to show an interest in numbers in their environment and recognise numerals. By the end of Reception children are expected to count verbally beyond 20, compare quantities in different contexts, and explore patterns such as odds and evens, and double facts.
Creativity and the World
We also give huge importance to ‘Expressive arts and design’ and ‘Understanding the World’. Children are encouraged to express themselves through a wide range of artistic medium, construction, drama and song, both inside the classroom and out. Our outside area is perfect for observing growth and change throughout the seasons, encouraging deep and insightful discussions about the world around us.