At William Rhodes we have created a Foundation Unit which combines our Nursery (children aged 3 and over) with our Reception in large classroom area with access to a dedicated outdoor space designed to support their learning whilst having lots of fun.
Our Foundation Unit is led by Early Years specialists who really understand how to help very young children develop emotionally, physically and academically.
If you are thinking of sending your child to our foundation Unit please do ring for an appointment and come and see it in action.
How we learn in the Foundation Stage
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) runs from birth until the end of Reception. There are seven areas of learning through which children develop different skills both through accessing the provision and through adult directed activities. At the end of Reception children work towards the Early Learning Goals.
Prime Areas
Communication and Language
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Physical Development
Specific Areas
Literacy
Maths
Understanding the world
Expressive Arts and Design
All areas of learning are reflected in the provision, both inside and outside. Children are active learners and learn best through hands on, physical activities and play. Learning is driven by the children’s interests.
Adults support children in their play, moving their learning on through scaffolding activities that interest the children.
Adult directed activities complement this play and support the children to develop as independent learners.
We want the children to develop their independence skills. Therefore, we focus on the characteristics of effective learning:
Playing and exploring - children investigate and experience things, and ‘have a go’;
Active learning - children concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties, and enjoy achievements.
Creating and thinking critically - children have and develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and develop strategies for doing things.