Learning Hub
Reception
Autumn 1
welcome to Reception
We have had an exciting start to the new school year in Reception. We have been learning our school rules which help keep us all happy and safe. These can be seen in our classroom and the children are learning the rhyme and actions to help them remember.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development / Literacy
The children have enjoyed exploring their new learning environment, getting to know each other and forming new friendships. We have started our topic ‘My story, our world’ and have been talking about ourselves and our families. We made self-portraits and drew pictures of our families.
Maths
This term in maths, our children have enjoyed a variety of engaging activities. They have sung number songs up to 5 and practiced comparing amounts using "more" and "less." The children explored sorting and matching, as well as hands-on comparisons of size, mass and capacity. They also delved into AB patterns to enhance their understanding of sequences. It’s been a fun and enriching term of discovery in maths!
Wow! Look at us practicing our own names! This term, the children have also been enthusiastically learning to recognise and write their names.
understanding the world
Culture and diversity day
We were lucky enough to have our Parents and Special people to us come in and talk about their cultures with us. We came dressed in our cultural clothing and tasted food from around the world.
Expressive Arts and Design
Music
The children have loved joining in with our music sessions the term. We have been learning how to listen carefully, follow instructions and stop and start in time with each other. Look at how much fun we have been having...
Autumn 2
This term was a very busy one. We settled into our new classes and routines very well, and had fun exploring our environment.
Understanding the world
Exploring Space and Beyond
This term, Reception has been reaching for the stars as the children have delved into the fascinating topic of space! They’ve been learning all about the 8 planets in our solar system, exploring what makes each one unique, and discovering the wonders of the moon. The children were especially captivated by the story of Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon.
Technology has also played a key role in our space exploration! The children have been introduced to using QR codes, which they’ve been scanning to access fascinating information about space. They’ve enjoyed reading fun facts and answering questions, helping to build their digital literacy and curiosity.
In addition to our cosmic adventures, we’ve also been focusing on the natural world right here on Earth. This season, the children planted bulbs in our garden. They are learning how to nurture and care for them, and we’re excited to watch the daffodils bloom come spring—a wonderful way to connect with the cycles of nature.
It’s been a term filled with discovery, innovation, and excitement, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Maths
We are so impressed with the fantastic progress the children have made in Maths this term! A big thank you for your continued support at home—please do keep practising, as it makes such a difference.
This term, our focus has been on numbers 1 to 5. The children have been working hard to represent each number in different ways, exploring the composition of these numbers and understanding what they are made up of. They’ve also been learning about one more and one less, which helps build a strong foundation for early arithmetic.
To deepen their understanding, we’ve introduced part-whole methods, allowing the children to break numbers down and see how they can be made up of smaller parts. This hands-on approach has made learning engaging and fun, and we’re thrilled with how well they are applying these concepts.
Keep up the great work, and we look forward to seeing their confidence in Maths continue to grow.
Literacy
Smeds and Smoos by Julia Donaldson
This term, the children have loved diving into the wonderful story of The Smeds and the Smoos by Julia Donaldson. The tale of two different families learning to overcome their differences sparked lively discussions in class about friendship, inclusion, and kindness. We explored whether it was fair for the families in the story to say the Smeds and Smoos couldn’t play together, helping the children think about acceptance and how to build positive relationships.
As part of our learning, the children had a go at creating their own books inspired by the story. They enjoyed using these to retell the adventure in their own words, bringing the characters and their lessons to life. It’s been a fantastic way to encourage creativity, storytelling, and thoughtful discussions.
Reading
Phonics
We have now learnt all our phase 2 sounds and are able to use these sounds to read and write. We have learnt lots of strategies to help us when applying these sounds to our reading and writing. In reading we have been using our duck hands to blend our words and our eagle eyes to spot our tricky words. The children have also been working hard in writing to use their stretchy snakes to stretch their words and use their freddy frog fingers to sound them out.
Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
This term, we have been focusing on key areas of Personal, Social, and Emotional Development to help the children grow in self-awareness, empathy, and cooperation.
As part of our learning, we’ve working on managing emotions with activities like “How are you feeling today?” This has helped the children identify and express their feelings, understand the emotions of others, and learn strategies to navigate challenges calmly and effectively.
Through discussions and role-play, we’ve explored justice and fairness, helping the children understand why fairness matters and how to make fair choices when working or playing with others. Activities on cooperation have further supported their social skills, encouraging teamwork and the value of working together to achieve shared goals.
It’s been wonderful to see the children becoming more self-aware and supportive of one another.
Communication and Language
This term, the children have been developing their communication and language skills through a variety of engaging and interactive activities.
We’ve introduced talk partners during carpet time, giving the children opportunities to share their ideas, listen to each other, and build their confidence in speaking and expressing themselves.
As part of our storytime sessions, we’ve been diving into books, encouraging the children to discuss the feelings of characters, describe settings, and recount main events. They’ve also been practising story sequencing and retelling stories orally, helping to strengthen their narrative skills and imagination.
A real highlight this term has been the children rehearsing winter songs in preparation for the winter performance, adding a magical touch to this festive season.
We’re so proud of how the children are developing their speaking and listening skills, and we can’t wait to see their confidence continue to grow!
Expressive Arts and Design
This term, our Reception children have been diving into the wonderful world of creativity through Expressive Arts and Design! They have embraced their imaginations and explored a variety of hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and develop artistic skills.
One of the highlights has been our junk modelling sessions, where children used recycled materials to create some truly amazing designs. From jet packs that launch imaginative adventures to binoculars perfect for space exploration, and paintings of their very own planets, the possibilities have been endless!
It’s been a term full of creativity, fun, and exploration, and we’re so proud of the artistic journeys the children have embarked on!
Physical Development
Over the past few weeks, the children have had exciting opportunities to develop their physical skills through a variety of activities in both gross motor and fine motor provision.
For gross motor development, the children have been having fun with the small A-frame, jumping on and off to build their strength and coordination. They’ve also worked with large balls and beanbags, practising their throwing and catching skills.
In fine motor provision, children have enjoyed a wide range of activities to help strengthen their hand-eye coordination. They’ve been busy with playdough, and using tools like scissors, hole punches, and treasury tags to develop their dexterity.
It's been a term full of physical growth and fun, and we look forward to seeing how the children continue to build on these important skills!
Spring 1
Under the Sea
Communication and Language
This term we're excited to share the wonderful progress your children have been making in their communication and language skills. They've been actively incorporating newly learned vocabulary into their play and discussions, demonstrating a clear understanding of the concepts we've been teaching. We've observed them confidently answering a variety of questions. Their collaborative skills are blossoming as they work together in groups. The class worked together to rewrite a story, it’s been delightful to see them describe story settings, events, and characters with such enthusiasm and detail. We're truly proud of their growing communication abilities and look forward to sharing more of their achievements with you.
Personal Social and Emotional Development
This term, our children have made significant strides in their Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED). They've developed cooperative learning skills by engaging in group activities that foster collaboration, communication, and mutual respect. We've also introduced the concept of being a "bucket filler," encouraging acts of kindness to promote empathy and self-esteem.
Additionally, using the book "Somebody Swallowed Stanley," we've explored environmental responsibility, focusing on the issue of plastic pollution in our oceans and inspiring activities like litter picks and creating fact sheets on reducing waste. This has instilled in them a sense of progressive values and their role in protecting the environment. Furthermore, we've worked on building resilience, helping children develop the ability to persevere and maintain a positive attitude in the face of challenges. We're proud of their growth in these areas and look forward to seeing them continue to develop into thoughtful and responsible individuals.
Physical Development
This term marked an exciting start to our Physical Education (PE) lessons, with a special focus on dance. The children have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the world of movement and rhythm, learning fundamental dance skills and techniques. In small groups, they worked collaboratively to create their own dance sequences, showcasing their creativity and teamwork. This process not only helped them develop their physical coordination and balance but also encouraged communication, problem-solving, and mutual support. As they choreographed their routines, they learned to listen to each other's ideas, build on strengths, and adapt to challenges. It's been wonderful to see their confidence grow as they performed their sequences for their peers. We're proud of the progress they've made and look forward to continuing their PE journey, exploring new activities and sports in the coming terms.
Literacy
This term, our children have been exploring the wonders of the ocean through our Under the Sea topic. They have enjoyed reading The Snail and the Whale and Tiddler, learning about friendship, adventure, and teamwork along the way. To celebrate Chinese New Year, they also discovered the magical story of The Magic Paintbrush, which inspired their creativity and imagination. These engaging stories have helped develop their language skills, cultural awareness, and love for reading. It’s been wonderful to see their excitement as they learn through storytelling!
Maths
This term, our children have been learning and growing in their maths skills. They started by understanding the concept of zero and comparing numbers up to 5. Then, they explored how numbers like 4 and 5 can be broken down into smaller parts. We also taught them about mass and capacity using fun, hands-on activities. As they moved on to learning about numbers 6, 7, and 8, they practised counting and combining these numbers. Additionally, they began to understand the concept of odd and even numbers, recognising patterns and differences between these types of numbers. We've made maths fun with engaging games and activities, and we're proud of how confident they're becoming with numbers!
Understanding the world
As part of their journey to understand the world around them, our children have been immersing themselves in exciting learning experiences through the story of The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson. They have expanded their geographical knowledge by mapping the places visited by the snail and whale on a world continents map. Additionally, they explored the different creatures and habitats featured in the story, comparing them to the wildlife and environments found in the UK, discussing their unique characteristics and differences.
We also investigated fascinating facts about sea creatures, learning about their body parts and functions. Furthermore, they explored the similarities and differences between land and sea animals, deepening their understanding of diverse ecosystems. Through these activities, the children have not only gained a greater appreciation of the natural world but have also developed important skills in comparison and critical thinking.
Expressive Arts and Design
Our children have been actively engaged in a variety of exciting Expressive Arts and Design (EAD) activities. They began by exploring primary colours and experimenting with mixing to create secondary colours, deepening their understanding of colour theory.
To develop their fine motor skills, they practised different folding techniques, using them to add flaps for windows and doors in their junk modelling creations. They also explored weaving and used stencils to design sea creatures. Finally, they brought the underwater world to life by crafting vibrant under-the-sea collages, using a range of materials to depict marine life and ocean environments.Throughout these creative experiences, the children have demonstrated incredible imagination and enthusiasm, and we’re so proud of the wonderful artwork they have produced!
Spring 2
Storytelling
Communication and Language
This Spring Term, the children have been building their communication and language skills through daily activities and storytelling across the provision. They have enjoyed listening to and talking about familiar books such as The Little Red Hen and We’re Going on a Lion Hunt.
The children thoroughly enjoyed becoming authors of their own books. They retold familiar stories by using pictures and words to create their own versions. Through this experience, the children learned to recall key details, describe characters, explain where the story is set, and talk about the events in the story.
A highlight of the term was when the children performed The Little Red Hen in their class assembly. They spoke clearly and confidently in front of parents and the whole school. It was an excellent performance, and we were incredibly proud of them!
Personal Social Emotional Development (PSED)
In PSED, we have been learning important skills to help us understand and manage our emotions. We explored how to manage conflict and seek support when we need help, as well as ways to express our feelings in a healthy way. We also talked about the importance of being respectful to others and understanding how our actions have consequences. Through emotion coaching, we learned strategies to recognise and regulate our emotions. Lastly, we discussed why we have rules and how they help keep everyone safe and happy.
Physical Development (PD)
This term in PE, our Reception children have been actively developing their coordination and motor skills through fun throwing and catching activities. Through a variety of engaging games, they have been improving their hand-eye coordination, control, and accuracy. The children have been practising different types of throws, such as underarm and overarm, and learning how to catch with increasing confidence.
Teamwork has been a key part of our lessons, as children have worked together in pairs and small groups, taking turns and supporting each other. These activities have not only helped to strengthen their physical skills but have also encouraged communication, cooperation, and perseverance.
Literacy
Our Reception children have been exploring the wonderful world of storytelling. We have focused on key stories, including The Little Red Hen and We’re Going on a Lion Hunt, helping children to develop their understanding of story structure, sequencing, and language. Through interactive storytelling, role-play, and discussions, the children have been learning to retell stories using expressive language and actions.
Additionally, we explored Major Dizzy, which introduced the children to past toys, helping them to make connections between stories and history. This provided a fantastic opportunity for discussions about how toys have changed over time, encouraging curiosity and expanding their vocabulary.
Throughout the term, the children have been making great progress in their phonics learning. They have been focusing on Phase 4, building on their knowledge of Phase 3 by working with blends. The children have been learning to recognise and use adjacent consonants alongside short vowel sounds. This important step helps them blend sounds fluently, supporting their reading and writing development.
We are so proud of their enthusiasm and can’t wait to continue building on their literacy journey!
Maths
This term, our Reception children have been focusing on building numbers 9 and 10. Through a variety of activities, they have explored different ways to make these numbers, comparing them and discovering their number bonds to 10. They have been adding and taking away numbers within 10 and have used rekenreks (counting frames) to help them make number bonds to 10. The children have enjoyed hands-on learning, using objects and visual aids to deepen their understanding of these important numbers.
We also introduced a fun song to help reinforce the number bonds to 10, and the children have had a great time singing it together. Ask your child to sing it for you—they’ll be happy to show off what they’ve learned! Here is our rhyme we hope you enjoy learning it too.
10 and 0 superhero
9 and 1 let’s have some fun
8 and 2 chicken poo
7 and 3 pat your knee
6 and 4 shut the door
5 and 5 bees in a hive
4 and 6 pickup sticks
3 and 7 cream from Devon
2 and 8 don’t be late
1 and 9 feeling fine
0 and 10 big fat hen
Understanding the World (UW)
Our Reception children have been exploring the world around them through a range of exciting activities. They have been developing their creativity using 2Simple to paint pictures on the computer, building confidence with technology.
As part of our science learning, we have been observing how bulbs change over time, linking this to the signs of spring and discussing the changes we see in nature. The children have been fascinated by watching plants grow and learning about the life cycle of a bulb.
We have also been broadening our geographical knowledge by locating Africa on a world map and comparing life in Africa to the UK. Through stories and discussions, the children have explored similarities and differences between the two places, helping to develop their understanding of different cultures and environments.
The children have been engaged and curious throughout these topics, asking thoughtful questions and making wonderful connections to the world around them!
Expressive Arts and Design (EAD)
This term, the children have been getting creative with split pin designs, learning how to connect materials to make moving parts in their artwork. They’ve also been introduced to the art of bookbinding, assembling their very own books—a fantastic way to strengthen fine motor skills and spark imagination. Through careful folding and crafting, the children have created books perfect for retelling their favourite stories.
Bread Baking
After enjoying the story of The Little Red Hen, we dived into a fun, hands-on exploration of bread making! The children discovered all the ingredients needed and learned about the step-by-step process of baking bread. Together, we mixed, kneaded, and watched in amazement as the dough rose before our eyes. The children loved tasting their warm, freshly baked bread, especially with butter melting and oozing over it — a truly unforgettable experience that brought the story to life.
Music
The children have been having lots of fun in their music sessions this term. They have been learning to sing, keep a rhythm, and play different percussion instruments.
They have enjoyed clapping along to the beat, using their voices in new ways, and trying out a range of instruments. It’s been great to see their confidence grow as they make music together.
Summer 1
Growing!
Communication and Language
This summer term, the children have made great progress in their speaking and listening skills. They confidently use new vocabulary during conversations, both in structured activities and through imaginative play. Whether exploring life cycles, or engaging in role play in the garden centre and mud kitchen, they have shown a strong understanding across a range of topics. They now communicate their ideas with clarity, confidently sharing their knowledge with others.
Personal Social Emotional Development (PSED)
This term, the children have developed important personal and social skills by learning about a variety of meaningful topics. The children have learned about being healthy in many ways, including healthy eating and drinking, taking care of their mental health, getting enough sleep and exercise, keeping clean, and looking after their teeth. As part of their learning about healthy eating, the children learnt about the food groups and helped sort food into the food pyramid. The children tried a variety of different fruit and vegetables! This has helped the children make good choices and feel confident in caring for themselves and others.
Physical Development (PD)
In PE this term, the children have been focusing on athletics. They have practiced running, jumping, and balancing skills using different equipment. The children have also climbed and jumped off A-frames and benches of varying heights, helping them build confidence and coordination.
Literacy
The children have been exploring stories like Jack and the Beanstalk, The Tadpole’s Promise, Oliver’s Vegetables, and The Tiny Seed to enhance their understanding of growth and change. Through these stories, they have learned about different fruits and vegetables, how plants grow from seeds, and the life cycles of both plants and frogs. This has helped the children develop a deeper knowledge of the natural world and how living things grow and change over time.
Maths
In maths, the children have been learning to count verbally to 20 and beyond. They have explored teen numbers, understanding what they are made of and building numbers using different methods. The children have practiced adding and taking away using number lines and a variety of resources.
Understanding the World (UW)
This term has been full of exciting learning as we explored our growing topic. We have been exploring lifecycles, focusing on how plants grow and what they need to survive. The children planted their own peas and are carefully observing them each day to spot any changes. As part of our learning about growth, the children also reflected on how they have changed since they were babies.
The highlights of the term were welcoming our parents into school to help us make healthy smoothies and plant seeds—thank you to everyone who joined in and made it so special! It’s been a wonderful term filled with curiosity, hands-on experiences, and lots of learning!
Expressive Arts and Design (EAD)
This term, the children have been drawing real objects using pencils and crayons, focusing on seeing and capturing details carefully. They also tried using charcoal to create different marks and textures. The children have been learning how to make effects like blending and smudging with these tools. They enjoyed painting and printing using natural materials and exploring leaf rubbing to discover new patterns and textures from nature.