Early Years
How we teach in Early Years
Aims
What we teach
Reading
In Early Years, the primary focus of our teaching of reading is to ensure all children are able to decode words so they can read fluently. This is done through:
- Daily phonics sessions -These are critical so that children can understand what sounds are and how they can be blended together to read words, then sentences. Phonics is taught systematically and should include whole word recognition and phoneme awareness. We teach phonics through the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds scheme.
- Guided reading groups (also known as Book Club) – This is a planned guided reading session for each child to ensure the development of word recognition (in context) and language comprehension. There is a clear teaching sequence (intro, strategy check, independent reading (including pre-read) and return and respond) and ‘double dosing’ of target groups, which has proved to be very effective for progress.
- Individual reading (daily for those who need it)
- Curriculum texts - Each topic we explore in Early Years is linked to a range of key texts. Children are supported to explore these books, with a particular focus on new vocabulary linked to their learning.
Writing
Mathematics
Nursery
In Nursery, children are taught a range of underpinning knowledge and skills in short teaching sessions, as well as through their play and discover. This focuses on:
- Using finger numbers up to 5.
- Subitising to 5.
- Identifying more and less.
- Exploring length, mass and capacities.
- Finding and continuing patterns.
- Selecting shapes for different purposes.
Reception
In reception, there is a significant focus on mastering the basic skills of number up to 10 as outlined below. More detail of what this looks like from week-to-week can be found here.
Wider Curriculum