Welcome to Robins Class
Class Teacher: Mrs Aisha Lowrey
Learning Journey
Throughout the year in Reception, your child will engage in a wide range of exciting learning experiences linked to the seven areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Our curriculum encourages collaboration, creativity and independence, helping children develop key skills through hands-on exploration, purposeful play and meaningful interactions.
Continuous Provision is at the heart of our classroom. Children have access to carefully planned resources and engaging learning environments that support them to investigate, practise new skills, follow their interests and become confident, independent learners.
Throughout the year, we will immerse ourselves in a variety of exciting learning enquiries, including "What Makes Me Special?", "Is the Big Bad Wolf Really Bad?" and "How Do Minibeasts Help Us?" These enquiries are designed to inspire curiosity, develop children's knowledge and understanding of the world, and provide meaningful opportunities for learning across all areas of the EYFS.
Phonics and Reading
At Newtown Primary School, we are passionate about developing a love of reading from the very beginning. We use the Read Write Inc. phonics programme to teach children the skills they need to become confident and successful readers. Through daily phonics lessons, children learn new sounds and are taught how to blend these sounds together to read words. Along the way, they are supported by our special phonics friend, Fred the Frog, who helps children develop their blending skills through fun and engaging activities.
During the first few weeks of Reception, phonics is taught as a whole class to establish routines and introduce key foundations. Children are then assessed and moved into smaller teaching groups based on their current stage of learning rather than their age. This ensures that every child receives the right level of support and challenge to help them make the best possible progress.
Once children are confidently blending sounds and reading words, they will begin bringing phonically matched reading books home. These books should be brought to school each day. We encourage families to read with their child at least three times each week and to record this in their reading record.
From the very first week of school, children will also bring home a 'Reading for Pleasure' library book. These books are chosen to be shared and enjoyed together at home. Library books are changed weekly, giving children regular opportunities to discover new favourites and develop an enjoyment of reading.
Outdoor Learning
Every Friday Reception take part in Outdoor Learning. We ask that your child has the appropriate clothing (a waterproof coat and wellies in the wetter and colder months, and sun cream and a sun hat in the warmer, sunnier months). We encourage all children to bring a pair of wellies that stay in school, as we like to make the most of our fabulous outside area throughout the year!
P.E
Robins take part in a set P.E session every Wednesday, as well as many other opportunities for physical activity throughout the week. Physical development is an important part of the Early Years curriculum and helps children develop their coordination, balance, strength, confidence and teamwork skills.
Please ensure that your child brings their P.E kit to school, where it will be kept on their peg and available whenever needed. P.E kits will be sent home at the end of each half term for washing and should be returned to school at the start of the following term. We recommend that all items of clothing and footwear are clearly labelled with your child's name to help us return any misplaced belongings.
Developing independence and self-care skills is a key part of learning in Reception. As part of our P.E sessions, children are encouraged to change into and out of their P.E kit independently, with support provided where needed. Learning to manage clothing, fastenings and personal belongings helps children build confidence and contributes to their development across the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Homework
Each Friday, we will share a weekly update on Class Dojo, giving you an insight into what the children have been learning and enjoying in Reception.
In Reception, we do not set formal weekly homework. We believe that young children learn best through play, exploration and spending quality time with their families. However, there are many simple ways you can support your child's learning at home, including:
· Listening to your child read regularly.
· Watching and practising phonics videos.
· Sharing and enjoying stories together.
· Practising counting and recognising numbers in everyday situations.
· Talking about their day and encouraging conversation.
· Taking part in fun activities linked to their interests and learning.
These small activities can make a big difference to your child's confidence and progress in school.
If you ever have any questions or would like to discuss your child’s learning, please do not hesitate to speak to me in person or contact me via Class Dojo. We value working closely with families and want to ensure your child has the very best experience in their first year of school!