Welcome to Reception!

The Teacher in Willow class are called Mrs Powley and Mrs Howell.

In Reception, we follow the Foundation Stage Curriculum, working towards the Early Learning Goals. A carefully balanced timetable ensures that key skills are introduced whilst the environment is designed to foster independent learning. Children are free to explore new ideas and develop skills according to their own interests and motivations. 

Children in the EYFS learn by playing and exploring, being active, and through creative and critical thinking which takes place both indoors and outdoors. There are seven areas used to plan the children’s learning and activities. The staff teach and support each child by making sure that the activities are suited to them. It is designed to be flexible so that staff can follow the child’s unique needs and interests.

The children learn skills, acquire new knowledge and demonstrate their understanding through seven areas of learning and development.

The three prime areas are:

• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development.

In the new EYFS Framework these prime areas are considered the most essential for a child’s healthy development and future learning. As the children grow, the prime areas will help them to develop skills in four specific areas:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the world
• Expressive arts and design

Independent Learning Opportunities

Teachers set up the classrooms with a range of exciting and engaging activities that are practical and multi-sensory. Activities are linked to the half termly topic or the key text for the week. Children have a wide range of resources in the classrooms that they can access freely to support their independent learning. Activities are set up to provide children with opportunities to practise their speaking and listening skills and encourage them to practise reading and writing. 

Throughout the year, the children will become familiar with school routines and appropriate learning behaviours. This prepares them for a successful transition into Year One.