Welcome from the Principal
Welcome to Early Years
Children begin their journey with us within our Nursery and Reception classes. We currently have an afternoon Nursery and Reception unit consisting of 3 classes (Lions, Tiger & Bears). We aim to offer our youngest children the best start to the school journey, providing children with the skills and love of learning needed to last them a lifetime
The times of our school day are:
- Nursery 12:00-3:00pm
- Reception 9:00-3:10pm
Our Curriculum
Developing our children’s Language and Communication skills is at the heart of everything we do as in our Early Years curriculum at Netherhall St James I & N School. We offer learning opportunities that are exciting, meaningful and practical though our flexible, book based curriculum. As well as ensuring all children’s learning needs are met, we also understand the importance of looking after children’s wellbeing. As a team we offer an environment where all children feel safe and secure. We build in opportunities for children to develop their social skills and build positive relationships with their peers and community. We foster children’s resilience and independence so children are not afraid to have a go, giving children the confidence to be critical thinkers. Our curriculum is fully inclusive and is tailored to meet the individual needs of our children.
Please see attached a curriculum overview for both Nursery and Reception
Children are taught Phonics discreetly using the Read, Write, Inc scheme as part of daily sessions in Reception. Please see phonics/reading section of website for more information on this.
Areas of Learning and Assessment
Early years learning concentrates on 7 areas split between prime and specific areas of learning.
The prime areas of learning are:
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
The specific areas of learning are:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Our Nursery and Reception curriculum covers all the 7 areas of learning and supports children to learn and develop in their own way.
At the end of Reception, each child will be assessed against 17 key areas called the Early Learning Goals (ELG's). This is known as the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile. The completed EYFS Profile also includes a short commentary on each child’s skills and abilities in relation to the three key Characteristics of Effective Learning. This will support future curriculum planning and will provide the Year 1 teacher with important information about each child’s approach to learning.
Transition and Parental Involvement
Starting a new school can be an overwhelming to even the most confident child. We therefore take time to settle children into our Nursery or Reception units to ensure they feel confident, safe and happy. This will be done through a range of parent visits, home visits and shorter visits into school. This gives children time to get familiar with their new surroundings, staff and friends. Transition visits can be flexible and we always follow the child’s lead.
New starter booklet September 2021
We recognise that parents and carers are the child’s first educators. They have a unique understanding and information about their child which our staff are keen to share. Parental partnership is an essential element in a child’s journey within our Early Years Curriculum. We take time to build good relationships with parents and actively involve them as often as possible within their child’s learning journey.