‘Like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not whither; whatever they do prospers. ’ Psalms 1:3
Starting school is such an exciting, yet anxious time for both parents and children. This is why we spend the first three weeks of reception settling in and learning routines. The children will have ample opportunity to get to know their classroom, teachers and new friends through a range of toys, games and group activities.
In Willow Class the teachers follow a legal document called the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. Within this framework there are seven areas of learning that help to shape the provision in the setting. All areas of the curriculum are important and they all connect and support each other. There are three prime areas of the curriculum, which are especially important for developing children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, to support the children in developing those crucial learning characteristics and support their social interactions and relationships.
These areas are:
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Communication and Language.
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Personal, Social and Emotional Development.
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Physical Development.
We also support the children in developing their knowledge and understanding in the remaining four areas, which are:
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Literacy
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Mathematics
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Understanding the World
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Expressive Arts and Design.
No day in Willow Class is the same as the last, as we are constantly adapting our teaching and structure, to ensure it is the best it can be for the children. However, everyday the children will take part in a 25 minute phonics lesson as well as Guided Reading at least 3 times a week. They will have 3-4 focus English and Maths Lessons a week as well as lessons such as history, geography and science (UW), Art, DT and computing (EAD) and an hour of RE a week.
Throughout the curriculum, we aim to provide a wide range of positive, engaging and fun learning experiences in a stimulating learning environment. There is an emphasis on learning through play and exploring the world around us through self-initiated learning. Through their play, children deepen their understanding through talking, observing, questioning and reflecting. Our classroom is made up of each of these areas and within the environment children can make their own choices and this promotes each child’s creativity, uniqueness and independence. Our learning environment continually changes to support our curriculum and topics at the time. We take time to add to the provision, using the children’s own interests, to fully engage and immerse them in their learning and play. Our outdoor environment ignites imagination further through opportunities to dig in the sand tray, explore how water travels through our water pump wall, cook in the mud kitchen, climb across over climbing equipment and ride down hills and over bridges.
