Early Years Foundation Stage
Welcome to the Early Years.
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Inclusion, Growth, Empowerment and Adventure. We have designed every aspect of our curriculum with these values in mind to create a happy and productive learning experience for our all children. We take a thematic approach to our curriculum, which involves revolving our learning around half termly topics such as ‘Journeys’ or ‘Growing’. We carefully structure our day to balance short adult-led learning, with longer child-led learning sessions. Our child-led learning sessions are called ‘free flow’ and this is where children can challenge themselves and follow their curiosity as they play in our enriching and inspiring environments. Our highly experienced and knowledgable staff team skilfully interact with children during these times to extend learning and maximise developmental progress. For a more detailed overview of our provision, take a look at our EYFS Policy, here. |
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An example of a nursery half termly topic map.
An example of a 'Half Termly Topic Map'.
An example of a typical 'Weekly Overview' in Reception.
PHONICS
How do we begin to read new words in reception?
We use the THEP Phonics Programme which provides a structured route for the children to learn how to blend and segment words in order to read and write. The children begin with Phase 1 in nursery, and then move onto Phase 2 once they start Reception, where they will be taught up to Phase 4.
The children use a variety of different resources to support them in their phonics learning, at school and at home.
Our Phase 2 and 3 'Sound Mats'
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We also learn how to read Common Exception Words, or ‘tricky’ words, which can be difficult to decode using their current phonics knowledge.
Overview of the 'Tricky Words' we learn in Reception
rEADING AT HOME
SPEAKING & LISTENING
CLASSROOMS
OUTSIDE
The Mud Kitchen
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The 'Big Playground'
We love the big playground. We have space to run, cycle, build obstacle courses, hone our ball skills and explore the playground equipment. We love to spend time playing games together, solving problems, and just having fun...come rain, shine, or snow!
We love the big playground. We have space to run, cycle, build obstacle courses, hone our ball skills and explore the playground equipment. We love to spend time playing games together, solving problems, and just having fun...come rain, shine, or snow!
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OUR SCHOOL
FOREST SCHOOL
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The Early Years Team Our knowledgable team are friendly and approachable and enjoy working in partnership with parents to ensure their children feel happy and safe, and are provided with the best possible start to their school journey. We are available before and after school for quick catch ups, and are flexible in arranging longer meetings for more in depth discussions. Lucy, our Early Years Lead, is always happy to talk or meet new and existing parents to discuss all aspects of the Early Years at Virginia. Appointments can be made via the school office. |