Intent

At Great Missenden School, Pre-school and Reception class children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum. Our aim is to provide a creative, happy and safe environment in which children can build the foundations that enable them to become confident, independent and successful life long learners.

We understand the importance of play based learning and positive relationships with the children and families to ensure the best outcomes. 

Implementation

 We have a strong focus on child-led learning through stimulating first hand experiences. We believe in the importance of outdoor play and have weekly forest school sessions for Pre-School and Reception children. The activities within these sessions encourage children to take risks in their learning, build resilience and enable a child to develop holistically. 

Our early years environments have been adapted to follow a calm and nurturing space which is enriched with natural resources and areas that encourage questioning to develop children's vocabulary. 

Children's progress is assessed towards the Early Learning Goals and Development Matters. Observations and assessments provide Early Years practitioners to gain an in-depth knowledge of each child to ensure accurate assessment is carried out through interactions and assessment during their time in Pre-school and Reception. Observations are also used to support planning and next steps in teaching and learning.

Impact

The Characteristics of Effective Learning are enhanced in all areas within the Early Years environments. These skills enable children to apply knowledge to a range of activities by making links and taking risks in their learning. We ensure that children have opportunities to explore, create and engage.

Throughout children's time in early years, good progress is made toward their age related expectations to ensure a smooth transition into Year 1. 

Our Early Years curriculum is annually reviewed to ensure the environment and learning topics are at a high standard and the child's voice is heard.

Please take a look at our class pages below for more information and updates