The Early Years Foundation Stage consists of the Kindergarten which offers all day care for children aged 2~4 years, the Nursery which provides morning or afternoon sessions for 3~4 year olds and the Reception classes for 4~5 year olds.  The three Early Years settings work very closely together to ensure all children receive the best possible start to their school life and have secure foundations for later learning.

Reception, Nursery and Kindergarten share a common vision:

 

To provide a safe, secure, happy and stimulating environment where each child feels valued

To develop the whole child - physically, intellectually, emotionally, spiritually and socially

To provide a well planned, resourced and exciting curriculum

To provide opportunities for all children to succeed

To encourage each child to become independent

 

We endeavour to give your child the best start to their formal education.  Each child is respected as an individual and given the chance to grow and develop at his/her own pace.  We believe in having a positive approach towards the children so they are highly motivated, thrive and love their learning.

 

We aim to make the children's learning experiences challenging, memorable and enjoyable.  Nursery and Reception classes follow the Foundation Curriculum, which is divided into six areas of learning:

 

    Personal, Social and Emotional Development is crucial for all young children and is the key to success in all aspects of their lives.

    In the area of Communication, Language and Literacy the children learn to communicate with one another and devlop talking, listening, reading and writing skills.

    In Mathematical Development the children develop ideas about number, quantitiy, shape and space.

    Knowledge and understanding of the World is about the children being given the opportunity to investigate and understand things and places around them.

    Physical Development includes moving on the large apparatus, developing ball skills and dance.

    Creative Development includes art, music, dance and imaginative play.

 

Young children flourish best in an environment which is exciting, engaging and full of adults who are interested in them ~ an environment in which every sense is stimulated.  They learn best from experiences that are suitable for their stage of development.  Play is fundamental to young children's learning and development.  Play is child's work!

 

All children love being outdoors and the outside curriculum is seen as a very important part of our early years education.  Secure outside play facilities are provided in all three areas.  In addition, weather permitting, the children have the opportunity to ride bikes and scooters to develop their gross motor skills.

 

Parents are children's first and most enduring educators.  The support and encouragement you give are important throughout your child's life, and especially during the early years.  The Early Years Foundation team work closely with parents/carers and welcome their involvement.  We have introductory "Welcome to Nursery and Reception" meetings and curriculum evenings at the start of the school year.  Parents are kept informed by newsletters which outline the topics we cover each term and give details of special events and outings.  We recognise that when parents and school work together this has a positive impact on children's development and learning.

 

In the Early Years Foundation Stage your child will embark on an incredible learning journey, full of exciting and stimulating experiences that lay firm foundations for the rest of their school life.