Our Reception Curriculum

Our Reception curriculum is designed to develop curious, independent and creative thinkers who are confident to explore, question, communicate, problem-solve and make sense of the world around them.

Our curriculum is rooted in the EYFS Statutory Framework, Development Matters and the principles of Best Start in Life, ensuring every child develops the knowledge, skills and dispositions they need to thrive. Carefully sequenced learning builds towards the Early Learning Goals (ELGs) at the end of Reception, providing strong foundations for future learning.

Play is at the heart of our Reception curriculum. Through purposeful, engaging and carefully supported play, children explore ideas, practise new skills, develop language, build relationships and learn to solve problems. Adults skilfully balance child-initiated play with planned experiences and teaching, knowing that play provides children with the time, space and freedom to revisit, practise and deepen their learning. Through play, children develop the Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning: Playing and Exploring, Active Learning, and Creating and Thinking Critically.

Reception builds on the knowledge, experiences and skills children develop in Nursery, while preparing them for the increasing independence and expectations of the National Curriculum in Year 1. We value each child’s starting point and provide rich experiences that extend their thinking and deepen their understanding.

The EYFS Curriculum

Our curriculum covers the seven areas of learning:

Prime Areas

• Communication and Language – listening, attention, understanding and speaking
• Physical Development – movement, coordination, health and self-care
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development – relationships, self-regulation and managing self

Specific Areas

• Literacy – developing a love of books, reading and writing
• Mathematics – number, numerical patterns and mathematical thinking
• Understanding the World – people, communities, the natural world and technology
• Expressive Arts and Design – creating, exploring, performing and expressing ideas

Learning Through Our Values

Our school values of curiosity, courage and trust are woven throughout our curriculum. Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas and develop a sense of wonder; show courage when trying new things, facing challenges and learning from mistakes; and build trusting relationships where they feel safe to take risks, express themselves and grow in confidence.

We place a strong emphasis on wellbeing, relationships and belonging, helping children to care for themselves, others and the natural world.

Through a rich, inclusive and carefully sequenced curriculum, where play, exploration and purposeful teaching work hand in hand, every child is supported to develop strong foundations, become a confident learner and build a lifelong love of learning.

Assessment

Children in Reception are assessed using the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. At the start of Reception, we complete the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA) to understand each child’s starting point. Throughout the year, we observe and assess children’s learning through their play and daily activities. By the end of Reception, we assess children against the Early Learning Goals (ELGs) to measure their progress and development across all areas of learning, including communication and language, physical development, and personal, social and emotional development.

Phonics Assessment

At Colwall, we follow Little Wandle and throughout the year we assess our children to track their progress and quickly provide additional support where needed to prioritise their development as early readers.

For more information:

• Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA)
• Early Learning Goals (ELGs)