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Reception

In Reception Class, pupils of all abilities make rapid progress as a result of the selection of appropriate individual work coupled with effective support.

ISI

Mrs Morris and Mrs Ward teach Reception class.

Starting in Reception is an exciting time and at St Peter’s, we believe Reception should provide a strong foundation for your child’s future education. We strive to develop the fundamental skills, talents and enthusiasm for learning that will enable your child to flourish as they progress through the School. 

We encourage the children to:

  • Be engaged learners; finding out and exploring through play, be willing to ‘have a go’ and try new things;

  • Be creative and think critically; having their own ideas, making links and choosing different ways to do things;

  • Be motivated and active learners; being involved and concentrating, keep trying when completing tasks and to enjoy achieving what they set out to do.  

In Reception, learning is based around the seven Early Years Foundation Stage areas which are: 

  • Communication and language

  • Physical development

  • Personal, Social and Emotional development

  • Literacy

  • Mathematics

  • Understanding of the World

  • Expressive arts and design

These areas of learning are taught through a mixture of child-initiated activities, small group work, 1:1 work with a teacher and whole class teaching. Activities are fun and engaging for the children and are often practical and hands-on, however children are encouraged to begin recording some of their work once they are ready. 

During the year, our learning is based around the following topics:

  1. People who help us

  2. Traditional stories

  3. Dinosaurs

  4. Spring

  5. Minibeasts

  6. Under the sea.

To enhance our provision, children also enjoy a range of trips and visitors over the course of their first school year. Trips are varied and numerous. Previously, our Reception children have visited West Lodge Farm, the Derngate Theatre in Northampton and Warwick Castle. We also welcome many visitors into Reception, who help bring our topics to life; these include nurses, police, postal workers and dentists.

Reception children also have a weekly outside/nature session, French and Spanish lessons with Mrs Palmer and take part in Lower School Choral and music lessons. 

We are extremely proud of how our children leave Reception Class as independent and happy learners ready to face new challenges with enthusiasm and confidence.