Welcome to Reception
In Reception, we are very lucky to have two classes – RG and RR.
Each class has its own individual classroom, but the children are free to move between both learning spaces and our fantastic outdoor area throughout the day as part of their continuous provision.
This flexible environment allows our children to explore, play, and learn in a way that supports their independence and curiosity.
Our dedicated team includes Miss Gains (Class Teacher for RG), Mrs Ratour (Class Teacher for RR), Mrs Mulholland, Mrs Birkby, Miss Hesson, and Miss Strafford (Teaching Assistants). Miss Lopez, another valued member of our team, is currently on maternity leave.
Please ensure your child brings a water bottle to school each day. We are really looking forward to welcoming all of the children into Reception.
Starting school is a big step, and we know you may have some questions — here are some we have answered:
Autumn Term 1 – Learning Highlights
Our first half term in Reception has been a fantastic start to the year, filled with new experiences, friendships, and exciting learning opportunities.
This year, we have introduced a skills-based curriculum, and for Autumn Term 1, our focus has been on the Prime Areas of Learning: Physical Development, Communication and Language, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development.
In Physical Development, the children have been moving energetically in both indoor and outdoor spaces, helping to build strength and coordination. We’ve also been supporting the children to hold a pencil effectively and establish healthy routines around eating, sleeping, and using the toilet independently.
In Communication and Language, we are working on extending vocabulary through stories, songs, and play. The children have been practising how to listen carefully, respond to others, and use language to recreate and retell their play experiences.
In Personal, Social and Emotional Development, we’ve been focusing on helping the children build confidence in seeking support from adults, recognising and following class rules, and developing positive relationships with their peers.
It has been a joyful and busy start to Reception life, and we are so proud of how well the children are settling in!
We have also begun to explore the Specific Areas of Learning as the children settle into school life and build on their interests through play and adult-led activities.
In Literacy, we have enjoyed sharing lots of books together and beginning to retell familiar stories using props, actions, and our own words. Through our phonics sessions, children have started learning to recognise initial sounds and explore mark-making and early writing skills
In Mathematics, we have been exploring numbers to 5, learning how to count, sort, and compare groups of objects. We have introduced simple patterns and begun to use mathematical language in our play, such as more, fewer, big, and small.
In Understanding the World, the children have been learning about themselves, their families, and the people who help us. We’ve enjoyed talking about our own experiences and exploring seasonal changes during outdoor play and nature walks.
In Expressive Arts and Design, we’ve been busy creating self-portraits, exploring colour mixing, singing familiar songs, and using instruments. The children have also been using role play and small world resources to develop their imagination and storytelling skills.
It’s been a wonderful start to the year, and we can’t wait to see what the next term brings!
