Reception
Starting school is a big step for children and their families, and we’re here to make that transition as smooth as possible.
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Epsom Primary
At Epsom Primary and Nursery School, we believe the foundation of a lifelong love of learning is laid in the very first years of a child’s education. Our experienced team provides a supportive, high-ambition environment where every child, from our 2-year-old provision through to Reception, feels a deep sense of belonging.
Our Intent: The Epsom Vision
Our goal is to develop the whole child through a curriculum that is both rigorous and responsive to our diverse community. We aim to cultivate curious, resilient, and articulate learners who are not only "Year 1 Ready" but are equipped with the character to thrive in the wider world.
Our Core Goals for Every Child:
- Kindness & Community: Treating others with empathy and celebrating the rich diversity of our school family.
- Communication & Creativity: Expressing themselves with imagination and flair in a language-rich environment.
- Independence & Wellbeing: Developing self-regulation, taking risks, and caring for physical and mental health.
- Foundational Excellence: Mastering the building blocks of literacy and mathematics through first-hand experiences.
Implementation: How We Learn
Our curriculum is a bespoke design, uniquely crafted for Epsom Primary. We ensure a seamless progression from Nursery to Reception, aligning closely with our Key Stage 1 pathways.
1. A Balanced Approach to Teaching
We utilise a sophisticated blend of explicit, direct teaching and purposeful, adult-facilitated play. This ensures children receive the structure needed for academic progress while retaining the autonomy to follow their own sparks of curiosity.
2. Communication & Emotional Literacy
- Talk-Rich Hubs: Our indoor and outdoor environments prioritise high-quality interactions where staff model sophisticated vocabulary and storytelling.
- Zones of Regulation: We integrate emotion coaching into daily life, empowering children to recognise their feelings and build the "soft skills" of negotiation and resilience.
3. Core Curriculum Pillars
| Subject | Our Approach |
|---|---|
| Reading |
We use the Read Write Inc. phonics programme. Our highly trained team provides daily input to ensure pupils become strong early readers with a lifelong love for books. |
| Writing |
Our Drawing Club fosters a love for writing by developing mark-making and fine motor skills. We offer varied opportunities for writing through play and exploration. |
| Maths |
We follow a mastery approach that builds on prior learning. This carefully planned curriculum encourages curiosity and a secure understanding of mathematical concepts. |
4. Exploration & The Learning Environment
Our spaces are meticulously resourced to encourage independence. Children are taught to navigate their environment, select their own tools for "work," and persevere through "marvellous mistakes."
- Outdoor Learning: Real-world resources play a vital role. Through outdoor exploration, children develop problem-solving skills and a deep connection to nature.
- Inclusive Practice: We use rigorous formative assessment and targeted interventions to ensure the curriculum is accessible to all, including children with SEND or from disadvantaged backgrounds.
5. The Home-School Bridge
We value parents as a child's first educators. We maintain transparent, two-way communication to ensure that learning continues beyond the school gates and that families are part of our collaborative planning.
Impact: The Epsom Graduate
Our children leave the Foundation Stage as confident, motivated, and emotionally secure individuals.
- Strong Progress: A high proportion of children achieve a Good Level of Development (GLD) from their individual starting points.
- Articulate Communicators: Pupils possess a varied vocabulary, allowing them to advocate for themselves and share ideas effectively.
- Social Harmony: Our learners play collaboratively, respect diverse perspectives, and manage their behaviour with maturity.
- Ready for the Future: By the end of Reception, children possess the foundational skills in reading, writing, and number, alongside the emotional maturity required for Key Stage One.
