Early Years Foundation Stage
At St Jude's C of E Infant School, we deliver a curriculum based on the framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage. This describes the seven areas of learning and development which “must be implemented through planned, purposeful play”. This framework covers children from 0-5 years,
The framework also states that “Practitioners must respond to each child’s emerging needs and interests, guiding their development through warm, positive interaction.”
We have a fantastic team of adults who put this into practice every day.
In addition, the framework describes “Three characteristics of effective teaching and learning ….playing and exploring...active learning…. and creating and thinking critically.” These describe exactly the approach we take to learning in Reception at St Jude's C of E Infant School. Throughout the year, the children play, make friends, develop and learn. They have great fun, exploring and creating, indoors and outdoors. They gain independence and confidence and their natural curiosity is encouraged at all times.
Click on the link for the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum:
Click on this link for a helpful guide for parents:
In the Moment Planning
At St Jude's C of E Infant School, we value the importance of child led learning. Planning 'in the moment' is all about seizing the moment for children to progress in their learning, whilst following their own interests. Based on what the children are already deeply involved in, this way of planning relies on our skilled practitioners, to use quality interactions to draw out the children’s knowledge and build on it there and then (in the moment). We observe the children in their play and look out for ‘teachable moments’ (moments during play which provide an opportunity for a practitioner to teach the child) which we then act upon in order to ensure the children progress.
This way of working means that most planning is retrospective (there is no forward planning). Each member of the Early Years team records what they have done each day to help the children with their learning. We then look at this at the end of the day to consider how we can further develop and extend this learning.