Learning Journey / Early Years
Wonder, security and the first foundations of learning.
Purpose of the Stage
The emotional, social, physical and intellectual foundations for later learning
Children begin to understand themselves, other people and the world through meaningful experiences and consistent relationships.
The Learning Experience
Active, purposeful and developmentally appropriate
Children explore materials, stories, sounds, movement, nature, patterns, numbers and relationships.
Educators observe carefully and extend learning through conversation, modelling and thoughtfully designed experiences.
Learning Priorities
Seven interconnected areas of development
Communication and Language
Children develop listening, expression, vocabulary and confidence through conversation, story, song and shared experience.
Early Literacy
Books, stories, sound awareness and meaningful mark-making establish a positive relationship with reading and writing.
Early Mathematics
Children explore quantity, pattern, shape, measure and spatial understanding through play and practical experience.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Relationships, routines and guided participation help children develop confidence, independence, empathy and self-regulation.
Physical Development
Movement, coordination, fine-motor development and active play strengthen physical confidence and wellbeing.
Understanding the World
Children observe, question, compare and explore people, places, living things and materials.
Creative Expression
Art, music, movement, role play and design create opportunities for imagination, communication and discovery.
Teaching Approach
Secure relationships and rich learning environments
They guide rather than dominate play.
They ask questions, introduce language, model thinking and respond to the interests and developmental needs of each child.
Assessment
Based on careful observation and professional dialogue
It helps educators understand development and plan appropriate next steps.
Young children are not reduced to isolated scores.
Environment
Spaces that support development
- movement
- play
- reading
- conversation
- creativity
- quiet reflection
- exploration
- safe routines
Family Partnership
Families bring essential knowledge of each child
Regular communication helps home and school understand development, routines, interests and emerging needs.
Available Academic Pathways
A coherent developmental foundation
The Early Years programme provides a coherent developmental foundation designed to support progression into the academic pathways offered in later stages. Specific programme and pathway information will be confirmed with families during admissions.
Transition to Primary
Moving forward with stronger language and growing independence
Transition is gradual and carefully supported. Children move forward with stronger language, growing independence, positive learning habits and confidence within the school community.
Invitation
Explore Primary
Strong foundations for knowledge, character and confident learning.