As a parent with a child starting school for the very first time, you may have lots of questions to ask and this is perfectly understandable! We have tried to help by collecting some of the more frequently asked questions here with answers. If there is something else you need to know please get in touch. We are here to help and look forward to starting this journey with you!
What is ‘Exploration Time’?
Children in the Early Years spend time independently planning and choosing their own learning path. They ‘choose’ the area/activity in which they would like to explore and using the variety of resource available they take ownership of their own play and learning. The adults may facilitate and/or extend the learning taking place to address any gaps any children's learning or provide them with a new learning opportunity based on their interests and play. Sometimes the ‘Exploration Time’ play will be play in which the children are exploring feelings such as empathy; sometimes they may act out scenarios in a safe environment; they may negotiate and form friendships; or develop understanding about how to share and compromise. These are just some examples of how ‘Exploration Time’ develops important skills for lifelong learning.
How will my child be taught?
In Reception we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and tailor our teaching to supporting the individual needs of each pupil.
Reading and Writing: Staff read one-to-one with every child, every week to help them to develop the early skills required for reading. We also teach phonics twice daily in small groups, following the RWI phonics scheme. We offer a reading workshop for parents to attend at the start of each year to enable parents to support their children with reading and writing at home. We are always on hand to answer questions and provide support where necessary. We provide opportunities for reading and writing throughout all of the children's learning environments through the adults and resources available; this embeds and stretches the new skills that they have been learning.
Maths: We teach maths in both whole class and small groups sessions; we provide directed sessions for children to practice newly learnt skills and concepts with a teacher. After all of our short inputs for maths we have lots of activities, both inside and out, for the children to practise their new skills in different contexts and work with the adults in the spaces to extend and embed their learning even further.
Will my child go outside?
As well as play times outside, children will go outside for small group activities and also for free Exploration time. We are very lucky with our outside space with great facilities; your child will be able to go outside whatever the weather. We ask parents to make sure that children are sent with suitable clothing to allow this to happen, including a suitable coat and covered legs if it is cold. As you will see when you visit, we have lots of opportunities for messy play outside from, sand and water, to mud and paint, so we suggest that the children wear an old coat to school that can get dirty. The children will also be provided with aprons and wellies.
Will my child go on school trips?
Yes! We love school trips in Early Years. These range from visits to local shops or somewhere further afield like a castle! Wherever we go we ensure that your child’s safety is our top priority.
What is expected of me as a parent?
We encourage parents to take an active role in the child’s school life. This will include; reading at home, completing homework, attending parent workshops (where possible), attending parent meetings, keeping school up to date with any changes in circumstance and most importantly making sure your child is prepared for the school day e.g. having a good sleep, eating a healthy breakfast. If you find you need any help, or even just someone to talk to at any time, please remember to call the school office.
Will I ever be able to come into school?
We have half-termly Stay and Play sessions or workshops where you can come in and work and play alongside your child. These workshops cover a range of activities including Phonics, Reading, Maths and Arts.
Lift St James the Great
Chapman Way,
East Malling,
E19 6SD
