In the nurturing environments of Nursery and Reception (Shell), our primary focus is to provide an environment which is positive, inclusive and safe. Within the Early Years, we are committed to providing a diverse range of stimulating, practical activities which allows each child to learn through firsthand experiences.
Nursery & Reception Curriculum (EYFS)
Tailored Learning Environment
Young children are naturally lively and curious about the world around them. As we welcome girls alongside boys, our learning environment is designed to spark that curiosity in every child: dynamic, hands-on and interactive, and tailored to how our youngest learners thrive.
The Curriculum
We follow the statutory framework provided by the Department for Education for Early Years providers, and our approach supports learning and development from birth to five years old. In addition, pupils in Reception have a Spanish lesson each week and both Reception and Nursery have a music and games lesson with specialist teachers. Across our Early Years department, pupils follow a two-year rolling topic plan.
Classroom Learning
Pupils begin their learning for the two-year rolling topic in their classrooms. They delve into specific themes such as the Arctic, building a comprehensive understanding over time and developing a foundation for future learning.
Outdoor Learning
Pupils enjoy frequent visits to our Outdoor Learning area, where they take part in activities that consolidate their classroom learning as well as everything from roasting marshmallows over the firepit to building minibeast houses.
We recognise the value of practical activities in the Early Years. Engaging with the natural environment enhances cognitive and sensory experiences, while hands-on activities build motor skills and problem-solving abilities. Outdoor activities foster creativity, imagination and social skills.
Co-Curricular
Beyond the curriculum, pupils enjoy engaging trips and events, and an extensive clubs programme. Learn about our co-curricular opportunities and wraparound care here.
Specialist teaching from the start
From Nursery, children enjoy music and games lessons with specialist teachers, and in Reception (Shell) they add a weekly Spanish lesson, dedicated art and drama, and swimming. Pupils follow a two-year rolling topic plan, exploring themes such as the Arctic in depth and building a strong foundation for future learning.
Learning outdoors
Children visit our dedicated Outdoor Learning area regularly, taking part in everything from roasting marshmallows over the firepit to building minibeast houses. Hands-on, outdoor activity builds motor skills, problem solving, creativity and social confidence.
Class sizes and staffing
Our Early Years classes are small, with a class teacher and teaching assistant in every class, so every child is known well and supported as an individual.
Curriculum FAQs
What curriculum does the Nursery follow?
Our Early Years provision follows the statutory EYFS framework, covering the seven areas of learning through play based and child led activities.
What specialist lessons are included?
Music and games from Nursery, with Spanish, art, drama and swimming added in Reception (Shell).
What are the class sizes?
Our Early Years classes are small, with a class teacher and teaching assistant in every class. Typically a ratio of 1 adult to 8 children is the norm.
How is my child's progress assessed?
Children are observed and assessed in line with the EYFS framework. We regularly share pupils work and progress via our online app, in teacher: parent meetings. In Nursery we encourage parents to visit for a Stay and Play session where the children can show you what they have been learning.