Early years

Introduction

Early Years caters for children from age 3 to 5 (Nursery to Reception); it is a distinct stage and important both in its own right and in preparing children for later schooling. Learning through structured, carefully planned play is at the centre of our curriculum. Children develop the social, emotional, physical and creative aspects of their characters through this most natural activity. Children also encounter learning opportunities in the outdoor area every day, and additional activities such as music, P.E., swimming, a library time and cooking.

Children in Early Years have exclusive use of the garden - a large, fenced, attractive grass area, complete with a shaded sand pit, bikes and a bike track, a pet area, climbing frames, play house, slide, monkey bars and quiet areas

Curriculum

The Early Years Foundation Stage Framework from the UK is closely followed. The Letters and Sounds program takes children through Phase 1 to 5 in Foundation Stage 1 (Ages 3-4) and Foundation Stage 2 (Ages 4 -5). There are timetabled sessions for Physical Education, Swimming and Music which are taught by specialist teachers. In Foundation Stage 2, children begin to take reading books home twice a week; the reading scheme followed is Oxford Reading Tree. All children have a library session once a week, where they can choose a book to borrow.