Early Years Foundation Stage
Our Early Years Unit, housed in a recently refurbished separate building, is where our Nursery (3-4 year olds) and our Reception (4-5 year olds) children play and learn. The space is set up to provide for all the areas of learning, with a bespoke outdoor environment; we go outside whatever the weather. In each area children work, play and learn together supported by a team of exceptionally qualified and experienced ‘early years’ staff.
Across both age groups, after short periods of focused activities with their class teacher or teaching assistant, the children access a variety of activities in both the indoor and outdoor areas for extended periods of time to encourage independence, interaction and play.
The Early Years Unit allows children to remain in the same environment, with familiar adults and routines from their 3rd birthday through to the start of Year 1, helping to build confidence and emotional security in the pupils. Our Nursery and Reception classes are led by a qualified teacher, supported by highly skilled and appropriately qualified Teaching Assistants/Key Workers, ensuring we meet the required adult:child ratios (1:13 in Nursery, and at least 1:30 in Reception (though this is generally much higher).