Early Years
EARLY YEARS AT WEST HEATH
At West Heath Primary, we believe that the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) plays an imperative part in building a strong foundation for children to help them achieve their best possible outcomes and fulfil their potential in education and beyond.
The philosophy of our provision at West Heath Primary School underpins a curriculum founded on play; it is supported by a high-quality learning environment and a broad framework, in order for all children to learn effectively. Children are provided with a relevant curriculum which is well planned, offers purposeful activities both indoors and outdoors and one which is structured in content, to consider the differing needs, backgrounds and abilities of our children. We believe that learning in Early Years is holistic. The individual needs and interests of children are at the heart of our curriculum. We are committed to play based, active learning inspired by children’s interests. Our work has, at its core, the aim of enabling children to develop their emotional, social, cognitive, interpersonal and physical skills, and their desire to explore, discover and be creative. We believe that children who are confident in themselves and their own ability have a head-start to learning, we therefore ensure that all our pupils feel included, secure and valued. We encourage all children to ‘Be a star and shine bright!’
Our curriculum encompasses the seven areas of learning and development outlined in the Early Years Statutory Framework. The three prime areas are particularly important for building a foundation for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, forming relationships, and thriving.
The Prime Areas are:
- Communication and Language
- Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
- Physical Development
The Specific Areas are:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Each area of learning and development is implemented through planned, purposeful play and through a mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities. Our experienced EYFS team support children’s learning and development by teaching phonics and maths lessons, which are delivered through whole class and small group sessions. The curriculum is designed in a sequential way to ensure progress towards the Early Learning Goals at the end of the Reception year.
‘When we give every child the best start in their early years, we give them what they need today. We also set them up with every chance of success tomorrow.’ – Development Matters
KEY DOCUMENTS
PHONICS
We are proud to follow the Read, Write, Inc phonics scheme. Please see the Oxford Owl website for additional phonics information.
Parent guide to Read Write Inc. Phonics
MATHS
We follow the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) Mastering Number programme, aimed at strengthening the understanding of number, and fluency with number facts.
TAPESTRY
You can follow your child's learning journey on Tapestry. Please share any learning and experiences from home and remember to keep an eye out for our class challenges on there!
- PE is on a Wednesday and Thursday. Please make sure your child comes to school in their PE kit on these days.
- All children should wear uniform which is clearly named.
- Drop-off time is between 8:30am - 8.50am. Pick-up time is at 3:00pm.
- Please ensure your child has a spare set of clothes, waterproofs and wellies, bookbag and water bottle in school every day.