Early childhood is the foundation on which children build the rest of their lives. At The John Wesley CEM Primary School (JWS), we greatly value the importance that the Early Years Foundation Stage plays in laying secure foundations for future learning and development. We aim to provide a safe, challenging, stimulating and caring environment which is sensitive to the needs of every child.

Learning and Development in the EYFS

During their first five years, children will grow, learn and develop at a greater rate than at any other point in their lives. That is why the Early Years are so important. But children do not grow and develop at the same rate.

4Children have produced a guide for parents and carers to help them find out more about how children learn and develop in relation to the Early Years Foundation Stage. This booklet also includes examples of ideas and tips in supporting your child's learning and development. You can also find out more about the Early Years Foundation Stage at www.foundationyears.org.uk/parents

The Curriculum

During the first year at our school, we provide a broad, balanced and creative curriculum that will establish firm foundations for future learning, where our children are motivated and eager to learn.

• We provide opportunities for children to learn through planned, purposeful play and child-initiated activities which support development across all areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum
• We aim to encourage children to enable choice and decision-making, fostering independence and self-confidence
• At JWS, we value and encourage parental engagement and work in partnership with parents and carers to develop and nurture their children, to become the very best that they can be. Activities are planned to support the seven areas of learning and development of which three are ‘prime areas’ and four are ‘specific areas’

Prime and Specific Areas

Prime areas are fundamental, work together and move through to support development in all other areas. The prime areas are:

• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development

 
Specific areas include essential skills and knowledge for children to participate successfully in society. The specific areas are:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding of the world
• Expressive arts and design

 
Baseline Assessment
On entry to The John Wesley CEMP School, children are assessed using the government Reception Baseline Assessment. This is carried out through a selection of short practical activities. Giving the children a baseline upon entry enables the class teacher to tailor the learning to the needs of the children and enables the school leadership team to track the progress that they make throughout their school life.
 
We continue to track the progress of our EYFS children using the EYFS Profile.
 
To see what the children will be learning about this year please refer to Willow Classes page.