At Cathcart Street we endorse the four Principles of the EYFS:
- A Unique child
- Positive Relationships
- Enabling Environments
- Learning and Development
For our children, this is our approach:
Our key priority is enabling the children to feel confident and secure, develop social play and co-operation to be able to access the provision independently and develop skills in the prime areas of learning in physical development, personal, social and emotional development and communication and language.
Parents are encouraged to join children for the first fifteen minutes of the day, to settle them in and experience the types of activities and learning opportunities expected. This is called ‘Linked Provision Time’.
From an early starting point, children work in small groups to access teaching of reading, systematic phonics through Read Write Inc., letters and sounds and mathematical teaching. Mathematical understanding focuses on fluency in counting, recognising sets of items, comparing and ordering numbers, solving problems and talking about numbers. They also explore shape, space and measure through practical activities in preparation for Year 1 ‘Maths - No Problem’ approach.
During the second and third terms, expectations for reading, writing and spelling increase. Children are regularly assessed for key skills such as fine motor control and correct pencil grip, so they begin to prepare for Year 1 expectations.
Early intervention for developing speech and language begins at the very start of EYFS. All pupils are screened. Intervention and referral pathways planned where necessary.
Underpinning our approach is developing a love of story and developing engaged, resilient and motivated learners who enjoy learning and enjoy coming to school.