EYFS & Play Based Learning

We strongly believe in the many benefits of play, particularly for our youngest learners.

Children will often take something learned in an adult-led situation and become more confident by playing with the skills and concepts taught, in ways that help them make meaning and become more proficient. Research reminds us that when experiences are repeated in this way, neural pathways are created in the brain (Conkbayir 2017) which in turn strengthen the connections between what is new and what is already established. So much more important for young children than rushing ever onward to Next Steps.

The child of the future will also need to interact skilfully with others. Not simply to sit next to them, but to work with them, negotiate with them and create solutions with them. In play, KS1 children usually choose with whom they collaborate. They see the purpose and the benefit of creating play scenarios together, frequently drawing on the ideas, the knowledge, the skills of their peers to help them achieve their own planned outcomes (Broadhead 2004).

We extend the play-based approach to learning used in the Early Years into both our Year 1 and Year 2 provision. This enables the children to explore the concepts and ideas of the National Curriculum in a more autonomous, creative and collaborative way. Teaching staff support the children to plan their play, develop their ideas, extend their thinking and reflect on their successes and challenges. They work closely with children in small groups to develop their skills in reading, writing and maths.

EYFS & Play based learning documents

Teaching Phonics in Reception

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Reception Core skills