EYFS (Reception)
EYFS Statement of Intent
At St Peter's we place great value on the development of children as individuals and providing them with the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to prepare them for the challenges in Key Stage One and beyond. Our aim in the EYFS is to work with parents and carers to build strong foundations rooted in academic success as well as faith, moral and spiritual development, so that ultimately our pupils can be successful as active citizens of society and happy, curious life-long learners.
Our curriculum is therefore the cultural capital we know our pupils need so that they can gain the knowledge, skills and understanding they require for success. They can only do that if we embed the right habits for learning and life so that we are fulfilling our mission of 'Unlocking potential with the keys of love, respect and friendship'.
A number of our pupils arrive below national expectations for their age and a proportion have more complex needs. We have to help our children develop the skills of listening, speaking clearly to a range of audiences and meet the high expectations for behaviour by working together and being kind. As such, we prioritise personal, social and emotional development and communication and language in the EYFS curriculum. Our enabling environment and warm, skilful adult interactions support the children as they begin to link learning to their play and exploration. We invest time and energy into helping pupils set and reflect on their own goals by aiming high and developing a love of reading, writing and number. This is delivered through a holistic curriculum which maximises opportunities for meaningful cross-curricular links and learning experiences as well as promoting the unique child by offering extended periods of play and sustained thinking following children’s interests and ideas. We value imagination and creativity and seek to create a sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning through a vibrant continuous indoor and outdoor provision, alongside trips, visits and regular forest school sessions.
Maths
Mathematics in Reception has an emphasis on the development of key skills: of counting, recognising and understanding numbers up to 20; basic calculation strategies and recognising and describing basic shapes, so that pupils develop deep understanding and the acquisition of Mathematical language. Pupils learn through games and tasks using concrete manipulatives which are then rehearsed and applied to their own learning during exploration and in adult lead activities. These collaborative and practical mathematical experiences are carefully designed to help pupils remember the content they have been taught and to support them with integrating their new knowledge across the breadth of their experiences and into larger concepts. Teaching Mathematics in such a kinaesthetic and practical way, supports our children to become logical problem solvers that can demonstrate resilience and deep understanding when learning.
Computing
The EYFS computing curriculum focuses on developing foundational computing skills through play-based learning, integrating technology into various areas of learning, and fostering problem-solving abilities.
Structure of the EYFS Framework
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework is organized into seven areas of learning, rather than traditional subject areas. Computing is integrated into these areas, emphasizing skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. The framework encourages children to explore and understand technology in a safe and engaging environment.
Key Components of the EYFS Computing Curriculum
The curriculum includes understanding how things work, showing resilience, and developing fine motor skills necessary for using technology.
1.Computational Thinking: activities that promote computational thinking, such as creating algorithms(sequences of instructions) and solving problems through play. These activities are designed to be fun and engaging, helping children learn essential skills in a cross-curricular context.
2.Integration of Technology: The curriculum emphasizes the use of various technologies, including computers, tablets, and programmable toys (like Beebots), to enhance learning experiences. Children are encouraged to explore these tools to complete tasks and express their ideas.
3.Focus on Skills Development: The EYFS computing curriculum aims to develop key skills such as listening, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Children learn to navigate technology safely and responsibly, understanding the importance of screen time and online safety.
Useful Document
Topic Sticky Learning Overview Sheets
Please click on the topics below for more details