In Reception we aim to help your child become as independent as possible.  It is important that children learn to take responsibility but they need support to learn how to do this.

The Foundation Stage curriculum in Reception is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework which covers six areas of learning and development.  All areas of learning and development are connected to one another, are equally important and are covered within each topic that the children work on during the year.

The areas of learning and development are

• personal, social and emotional development
• communication, language and literacy
• problem solving, reasoning and numeracy
• knowledge and understanding of the world
• physical development
• creative development

Personal, social and emotional development

Children will be provided with experiences and support which will help them to develop a positive sense of themselves and others, respect for others, social skills and a positive attitude towards learning.

Communication, language and literacy

We aim to help your child develop skills in speaking and listening and a love of reading and writing.  They will be provided with opportunities and encouragement to use their skills and knowledge in a range of situations and for a range of purposes.  They will be supported in developing their confidence to do so.

Problem solving, reasoning and numeracy

Children will be supported to develop their understanding of problem solving and reasoning.  Numeracy will be taught in a broad range of contexts in which they can explore, enjoy, learn, practise and talk about their developing understanding.  We aim to provide opportunities for children to practise and extend their skills in these areas and to gain confidence and competence in their use.

Knowledge and understanding of the world

We aim to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding  that help the children to make sense of the world.  Their learning will be supported through offering opportunities for them to use a range of tools safely and to encounter creatures, people, plants and objects in their natural environments and in real life situations.  They will undertake practical 'experiments' and work with a range of materials.

Physical development

The physical development of young children must be encouraged through the provision of opportunities for them to be active and interactive.  We aim for them to improve their skills of co-ordination, control, manipulation and movement and they will be supported in using all of their senses to learn about the world around them.  They will also be supported in developing an understanding of the importance of physical activity and making healthy choices in relation to food.

Creative development

We aim to extend the children's creativity by supporting their curiosity, exploration and play.  They will be provided with opportunities to explore and share their thoughts, ideas and feelings through a variety of activities such as art, music, movement, dance, imaginative and role play activities, mathematics and design and technology.