Curriculum Intent

We offer a holistic approach to learning recognising the needs and interests of the children using real life, meaningful experiences both in the classroom and in the outside area. We build on what the children already know and give them the knowledge and skills for future learning. We promote enjoyment, resilience and independence. The Reception team at Buttsbury Infant School have high expectations for all children and work together to ensure children are happy and settle quickly into school life.

Curriculum Implementation

We follow The Early Years Foundation Stage framework which sets the statutory standards for the development, learning and care of children from birth to age 5. The framework is split into seven areas, 3 prime areas which are the necessary skills children need to access the four specific areas. The prime areas are communication and language, physical development and personal, social and emotional development. The specific areas are literacy, mathematics, understanding the world and expressive and design. Characteristics of Effective Learning run through all areas and look at how a child learns through playing and exploring, active learning and creating and thinking critically. We teach the skills and knowledge children need through a topic approach utilising both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. Topics are exciting and engaging, encouraging children to explore and investigate through observation and play, whilst taking regard of the whole child's development; intellectual, emotional, social, physical and aesthetic. We value parental involvement to support learning and assessment. Educational visits and visitors enrich the curriculum. We teach phonics daily and there are numerous opportunities to write, listen to stories and develop language skills. In maths we have used the mastery approach with children developing a deep understanding of numbers and applying their skills to problems and real- life situations.

Curriculum Impact

We strive for all children to achieve their maximum potential academically, socially and emotionally. Our children become independent learners who enjoy school and are developing a love of learning. The diversity of work we cover enables children to be well prepared for the transition to KS1. Our work on promoting good manners, consideration and co-operation enables children to become good role models and the best version of themselves. Our results are usually above national average.