Learning & Development

In Tornedale Foundation Stage, we aim to give all children the very best opportunities for effective learning and development by providing a happy and stimulating learning environment. Our experienced team support children in becoming independent learners and in developing a positive sense of themselves and others.

When children join us in Nursery and Reception they follow the Foundation Stage curriculum which covers seven areas of learning. These consist of:

Three Prime Areas

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Communication and Language
• Physical Development

Four Specific Areas

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

These seven areas are used to plan the children’s learning and activities. Our EYFS team will ensure that activities planned are suited to the child’s unique needs. Our curriculum is designed to be really flexible so that staff can follow the children’s unique needs and interests.

Children in our Foundation Stage learn by playing and exploring, being active and through creative and critical thinking which takes place in both our indoor and outdoor environment.

Records & Feedback

Whilst in the Foundation Stage, staff will carefully record the children’s progress. This is done through regular assessing the children in the provision. Through these interactions we will record significant learning and be recorded in different ways such as class dojo as our 'Wow' Moments, Floor book or our sparkle books for the children's greatest achievements. Parents have access to these at any stages of the year and are encouraged to come and look at what the children have been doing. Class Dojo is also a great way to send your teacher achievements at home, this can then be celebrated in school too! 

Parents are the most important people in their children’s lives and their first and most enduring educators. In Tornedale Foundation Stage we strive to work in partnership with parents and value the contribution they make to their child’s development. We will send home many home-school link activities over the year that contribute to us building a picture of the children’s learning and development.

Key Person

In line with the EYFS guidance, we have a key person system. In Foundation Stage 2 the child’s teacher will be their main key person who meets with parents to discuss the children’s progress. However, the supporting staff in the class assist the main key person role and are also responsible for making sure the children are happy, monitoring their general well-being and contributing to the children’s education and welfare.