Mr Avis
assisted by Denise, Jemma, Natalie,
Rosemary and Stacey
CURRICULUM
OVERVIEW
Click here for Reception overview
MATHS
In maths, we’ll start by learning about our daily routines, using language for where things are (positional words like next to, behind, on top of), and exploring how things can be matched, sorted, compared and ordered.
We’ll also be spending lots of time getting to know numbers up to 5 really well. Children will learn all the different ways each number can be made, for example, 5 can be made from 2 and 3, or 4 and 1, and how to spot these numbers in the world around them. This strong foundation helps children develop confidence and a real love of numbers.
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Click here for Maths Methods Handbook
WELCOME TO RECEPTION!
We are so excited to begin this journey with your child. The autumn term is all about settling into new routines, making friends and enjoying lots of fun, creative learning experiences. Our aim is to help every child feel happy, confident and curious as they start their time in Reception.
WRITING
We’ll be using stories linked to our theme to inspire our writing. At this stage, the main focus is on children developing confidence with holding their pencil, forming letters, and looking after their books.
Correct pencil grip video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPg9qpq6Hhg
PHONICS
We follow the Little Wandle Letters & Sounds programme. This term, children will be learning the first set of sounds (known as Phase 2). They will begin to blend sounds together to read and spell simple words.
R.E.
In RE our big question is ‘Who am I and where do I belong?’ We’ll think about what makes each of us unique and celebrate our differences. We’ll talk about the Christian belief that God created each person and loves them unconditionally, and also about the importance of belonging.
Later in the term we’ll move on to ‘Why is Christmas special for Christians?’ as we prepare for the festive season.
IDEAS FOR HOME
We know families are always looking for simple ways to support learning at home. Below are some easy, playful ideas you might like to try. They are completely optional, but they can make everyday moments fun opportunities for maths and reading.
Parent Tips: Supporting Maths at Home
• Show numbers on fingers in different ways, for example, 4 could be 3 and 1, or 2 and 2.
• Count everyday objects: socks, apples, cars on the road, steps up to bed.
• Play “What’s missing?”: line up 3 or 4 toys, hide one, and see if your child can work out which has gone.
• Make numbers with food: “Two halves make one whole grape.”
• Build and break: make a tower of 5 blocks, then knock some off: “We had 5, now 2 have fallen, how many are left?”
• Spot numbers in the world: on doors, buses and signs.
Parent Tips: Helping with Reading
Books are a brilliant way to build your child’s language skills. At this stage, the most important thing is talking together about what you read, rather than focusing on sounding out or blending every word.
• Talk in full sentences. Encourage your child to answer in complete sentences when talking about a story.
• Rephrase gently: if your child says something in a short or slightly muddled way, repeat it back in a fuller sentence so they can learn from your example.
• Ask open questions: try “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why do you think the character feels like that?”
• Make connections: link the story to your child’s own life: “This reminds me of when we went to the park. What did you do there?”
• Enjoy the book together: let your child turn the pages, look closely at the pictures and retell the story in their own words.
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
PE is on Wednesdays. Please make sure your child arrives in school in their PE kit.
In PE we’ll be working on moving with control: things like footwork, balancing, jumping and landing. We’ll also practise working together and building confidence through physical activity.
Fine motor skills are just as important, so we’ll be encouraging children to use scissors, paintbrushes, cutlery and of course, pencils, helping them build the strength and control they need for writing.
RECOMMENDED READS
Click here for Reception book list
THEME
his term our theme is ‘Exploring Journeys’. We’ll be talking about different kinds of journeys, looking at maps, telling stories and playing games that help children make sense of the world around them.