Nursery
Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) is a vital part of a child’s early learning journey, laying the groundwork for future education and development. Children can begin attending FS1 after their third birthday, accessing their entitled hours of early education (between 15 and 30 hours per week, depending on eligibility).
This stage provides a nurturing environment where children take their first steps into school life and begin to explore the world around them through a rich play-based curriculum. Activities are carefully designed to spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and develop essential skills such as strong oracy, communication, social interaction and problem-solving.
Our goal is to make this important phase in every child’s life secure, safe and happy. We strive to create a welcoming atmosphere where children feel valued and confident, enabling them to build positive relationships and develop a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Reception
Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) is designed to help children develop independence and confidence as learners through a play-based approach. Most children begin their FS2 journey after their fourth birthday, where they will turn five that academic year. At this stage, children are encouraged to take ownership of their learning by making choices, exploring ideas, and engaging in activities that spark curiosity and creativity.
The school day is thoughtfully structured into a series of sessions that cover a wide range of learning areas, including literacy, mathematics, physical development, and expressive arts. These sessions provide a balance between adult-led activities, which introduce new concepts and skills, and child-initiated activities, which allow children to apply their learning in meaningful, self-directed ways.
This approach ensures that children experience both guidance and freedom, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and social interaction. By creating an environment that values exploration and independence, FS2 lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning and prepares children for the transition into Key Stage 1 with confidence and enthusiasm.
EYFS Framework
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Curriculum is based on the statutory framework provided by the Department for Education (DfE). It encompasses three Prime Areas of Learning:
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
As well as four Specific Areas:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Children have access to these areas throughout the day, with the overarching aim of achieving the 17 Early Learning Goals (ELGs) by the end of their time in EYFS. Learning experiences are delivered through a balanced mix of adult-led activities, child-initiated play and provision tailored to individual interests, ensuring engagement and motivation.
Our Approach
In line with our Whole-School Curriculum Commitment, we carefully select resources, stories and experiences that support children to become ambitious, inclusive, coherent, enriched and empowered individuals. Our approach helps children see themselves represented (“mirrors”) while also gaining insight into the lives and perspectives of others (“windows”), fostering empathy and respect for diversity.
The curriculum is chosen to reflect our local community whilst also introducing children to the wider world, creating a curriculum that is both familiar and expansive. By embedding these principles into our provision, we provide a strong foundation of knowledge, skills and attitudes that support a smooth and confident transition into Key Stage 1.
