It is our intent that all children in Reception develop physically, verbally, cognitively and emotionally in an environment, which values all cultures, communities and people. We aim for our children to be confident, curious and independent, to believe in themselves and interact positively with others, to be successful learners and to flourish.
Implementation: “Play is essential for children’s development, building their confidence as they learn to explore, relate to others, set their own goals and solve problems.” EYFS Statutory Framework September 2021
Our long term plan is constantly evolving, depending upon the needs of children in the class and their interests. We aim to support all children and how they learn, by developing the “whole” child and learning through play. With the EYFS Framework principles firmly embedded, we provide planned teacher-led and child-initiated play, activities and continuous provision, allowing for high quality interactions with the children and for catching those unplanned “teachable” moments. From day one, the important routines of the day and expectations are put in place to enable each child to feel safe and secure. We model how to communicate and use appropriate language, supporting “back and forth” conversations, sharing ideas, exploring and questioning, retelling, using talk partners in a safe and encouraging environment. We love finding and learning new words for facts together!
The environment and resources are designed to meet the developing needs of every child, providing a stimulating, nurturing space where children feel happy and enthusiastic to play and learn. We provide experiences that the children can relate to and feel comfortable with, provide resources and activities for their physical development and, over the year, we will plan challenges for the children to negotiate and extend their learning. Staff interact in meaningful, supportive ways by explaining, demonstrating and setting challenges, as well as modelling the important skill of listening to each other. Through careful transition planning in the summer term, staff begin to build a picture of each child, what they know and understand and can do. We continue to assess each child through careful observation and planning, to develop their next steps in new skills and knowledge, monitoring their progress over the year. We focus on their attitudes to learning and play (Characteristics of Effective Learning) in a supportive and encouraging environment so they start Y1 as happy, engaged and successful individuals.