Early Years Foundation Stage
From the moment your child enters our school, our teaching staff are passionate about finding the ‘spark’ that ignites your child’s sense of curiosity, and to discover the things that bring them joy. Through our taught, guided and free flow sessions, we will inspire them to be their ‘very best selves”, and start to become independent, empowered and motivated learners.
We value a close partnership between home and school. Our open-door policy invites all parents and carers to join us on their child’s learning journey.
What and how will your child learn
At John Ball we understand the vital role that the Early Years plays in laying the secure foundations for future learning and development. Our framework is based on four guiding principles:
- A unique child
- Positive relationships
- Enabling environments
- Learning and development
Observations of the children at play provide us with the knowledge and understanding of where a child is developmentally and how best to identify their individual next steps. These observations are documented within each child’s Learning Journey folder which you can access throughout the school year, to reflect on and celebrate with your child.
Throughout their time in Early Years, we will guide your children on their development through the key areas as set out by the Department for Education:
- Personal, social and emotional development
- Communication and language
- Physical education
These three prime areas are crucial to early education. Securing strong foundations in these areas is essential in gaining knowledge, key life skills and enabling children to access the wider Early Years curriculum, including maths, literacy, expressive arts & design, and understanding the world around them.
How we will work with parents and carers
There are regular opportunities to get involved and to find out how your child is doing including:
- Parent, carer and guardian teacher meetings
- Parents and carers are able to join us in school through a range of opportunities including trips and visits
- Parents and carers are invited to look inside their child’s Learning Journey at key points throughout the year.
Information and dates will be send to you directly from our administration team.