Nursery & Reception

Curriculum Intent for Nursery & Reception 

At Tadpole Farm our School Curriculum is underpinned by 12 Christian values and is designed to meet the needs of our pupils in mind with an extensive range of diverse learning opportunities. Our curriculum is planned to promote a LOVE of learning; the courage to ENQUIRE and ask questions; a place where each child can ACHIEVE their individual potential academically, socially and emotionally through working in PARTNERSHIP with their teachers, peers and parents/carers

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) we provide a broad and rich curriculum that nurtures the needs of each individual child and allows children to actively explore the world around them. We strongly promote independence and support learners to show courage and perseverance when taking risks in their learning within a safe and supportive environment. We learn in a variety of ways, meeting the needs of each individual child to support them in reaching their full potential and develop a love of learning. 

The Early Years Foundation Stage sets out seven areas of learning and development which are all important for building a foundation for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, forming relationships, and thriving in their learning.

 Prime areas: 

• Communication and Language
• Physical Development 
• Personal, Social, and Emotional Development.

Specific areas:

• Literacy
• Mathematics 
• Understanding the world
• Expressive Arts and Design

Early Learning Goals

At the end of Reception children are expected to meet the Early Learning Goals. The Early Learning Goals can be found here. 

Curriculum Implementation for EYFS

We implement this across Nursery and Reception through a child led, play based approach. We have a topic approach which incorporates key learning that the children need inorder to achieve the ELG’s as well as capturing their own interests. Teaching is practical and consists of a mixture of whole class carpet sessions, small group activities, independent learning and supporting learning in the continuous provision. We aim to support and challenge all learners and refer to the Characteristics of Effective Learning to ensure that all children actively engage in learning and have opportunities to think critically. 

Our learning environment is stimulating and exciting and is designed to inspire a love of learning. Both the inside and outside environments are constantly adapted to reflect the children's interests and support their next steps of learning. We actively promote independence and incorporate the school values in our day to day learning. 

Children are continuously assessed through adult tasks, observations and interactions in order for the staff to effectively plan next steps of learning for each child. 

We use Tapestry to record key moments of learning which is shared with parents.