The Foundation Stage
Starting school is an important and exciting time in a child’s life and at Chiswick and Bedford Park Preparatory School we are delighted to be sharing this special experience with children and their parents. At age four years, pupils join our Reception Class, which is part of the Foundation Stage of education.
Children develop rapidly during this time - physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. We offer clear and positive guidance of early learning through the Foundation Stage. We help our pupils to develop key learning skills such as listening, speaking, concentration, persistence and learning to work together with other children. We also guide the development of our pupils’ communication, literacy and numeracy skills that will prepare them for Key Stage 1 and the National Curriculum.
The curriculum of the Foundation Stage underpins all future learning by fostering, supporting and developing the children’s range of abilities. It is organized within the following six areas of learning:
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
This area is fundamental to all elements of the curriculum. We provide opportunities for the children to become valued members of their class and the School, and we help them to develop a positive attitude towards learning. We teach the children how to co-operate and work harmoniously alongside each other and we develop their attention skills and perseverance through a range of lessons and play-focused activities.
Communication, Language and Literacy
Activities are provided to enable our pupils to communicate in a wide range of situations, where they can listen and respond to adults and each other, whilst practising and extending their range of vocabulary. Role-play is a key feature in this learning experience. We teach phonics, reading and writing skills by offering opportunities for children to explore, enjoy and use words in a variety of contexts, and experience a wide range of stimulating books.
Mathematical Development
The children develop their understanding of number, measurement, pattern, shape and space through practical tasks and teaching. A wide range of exciting resources enhances their learning and enjoyment. They also learn to record their ideas at a level appropriate to their stage of development.
Knowledge and Understanding of the World
We are keen to channel children’s natural curiosity and encourage them to learn about the world around them. We provide opportunities for them to question, experiment, predict, plan, make decisions and solve problems in a variety of contexts. We enable our pupils to develop their skills in Information and Communication Technology, using a range of play-based and focused activities.
Physical Development
Children’s fine and gross motor skills are developed through play and structured tasks. We help them to develop an understanding of how their bodies work, and what they need, to be healthy and safe. Pupils also take part in outdoor games, gymnastics, dance-based activities, and have the opportunity to play on a range of wheeled vehicles outdoors.
Creative Development
The children take part in a variety of art, design and technology, music, movement, dance and imaginative role-play activities to develop their ability to explore and share their thoughts and feelings.
