Early Years (Age 2–5)
At Brackenfield the national Foundation Stage Curriculum is taught to all children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old. They start to follow this curriculum in the Nursery and continue during the Reception Year, the first year in the Infant Department.
The Foundation Stage Curriculum is organised into six key areas of learning:
Communication, Language and Literacy
Literacy brings together the important skills of reading and writing, which together with speaking and listening are essential parts of the curriculum framework. These skills are taught everyday using a variety of methods to ensure a solid foundation in these areas.
Mathematical Development
Children are introduced to a range of mathematical concepts, learning through problem solving, investigation and practical situations. Mental maths is also part of daily lessons.
Knowledge and Understanding of the World
This includes geography, history and topic work. Full use is made of Brackenfield’s delightful grounds and the children enjoy regular external trips and visits.
Physical Development
This part of the curriculum involves learning to catch a ball, ride a bike, use scissors, pour water and sand, and many other physical skills. The children all thoroughly enjoy developing these skills!
Creative Development
Children get lots of opportunity to develop their creative skills through art and craft activities, including painting, clay and junk modeling. The results fill the Nursery with vibrant displays! Music is also a key part of this learning area and this is the introduction to many years of music at Brackenfield.
Personal and Social Development
Children are encouraged to develop personal hygiene and to become independent learners. They start to choose their own activities and to become aware of their individual potential.
A ‘Foundation Stage Profile’ is completed for every child as they progress through the learning goals. These profiles are regularly discussed with parents.
Most children successfully complete the Foundation Stage Curriculum by the end of the Reception year. Often children are able to move onto Key Stage One of the National Curriculum whilst still in the Reception class.
