At Longlands Primary School and Nursery, we believe that the early years are a vital time in a child’s development. Our Foundation Stage, which includes Nursery and Reception, provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where children begin their learning journey with confidence, curiosity and joy.
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, which sets the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five. Our curriculum is carefully planned to support each child’s progress across the seven areas of learning:
- Communication and Language
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Physical Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
A Curriculum That Builds Strong Foundations
Our curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, designed to help children thrive both academically and personally. We set high expectations while recognising and celebrating the unique strengths each child brings to the classroom. Learning is carefully sequenced to support smooth transitions into Key Stage 1 and beyond, with links to topics and skills that children will encounter later in their school journey.
We use a blend of child-initiated play and adult-led learning to create a balanced and engaging daily routine. Children explore freely in our well-resourced indoor and outdoor environments, while also taking part in focused sessions such as:
- Phonics using the Little Wandle scheme
- Mathematics using HFL ESSENTIALMATHS
- Writing using Drawing Club and HFL ESSENTIALWRITING
- Personal, Social and Health Education through the Jigsaw programme
- Religious Education using the Discovery RE scheme
- Literacy and topic work based on high-quality core texts
Our enhanced provision is updated weekly to reflect children’s interests, seasonal themes and current topics, helping to keep learning fresh, relevant and exciting.
A Rich Learning Environment
Children have daily access to both indoor and outdoor learning spaces, which are clearly zoned and labelled to promote independence. Our areas include:
- Construction and small world play
- Role play and creative zones
- Maths and mark making areas
- Book corner and investigation station
- Sensory tent, sand and water play
These spaces encourage exploration, problem solving and imaginative thinking, helping children become confident, resilient learners.
Responsive Teaching and Assessment
We believe in the importance of in-the-moment assessment, which allows staff to respond to children’s needs and interests as they arise. This flexible approach ensures that learning is personalised and meaningful. We regularly review our curriculum to ensure it remains accessible and effective for all children.
Each child has a personal learning journal using Tapestry, a secure online platform where we record observations, photographs and assessments. Tapestry helps us build a rich picture of each child’s development and allows families to stay closely connected to their child’s learning journey.
Working in Partnership with Families
We know that children flourish when school and home work together. That’s why we place great value on building strong relationships with families. Parents and carers are invited to join us in the classroom for weekly reading sessions and termly craft mornings. We also share updates through reading diaries, Tapestry and regular curriculum meetings.
We are here to support you every step of the way and welcome your involvement in your child’s early education.
Further Information
- EYFS Curriculum Plan – September 2023 (515.82KB)
