RECEPTION
Our Early Years Vision
We are preparing our children to have a love of learning through curiosity, risk taking and high levels of engagement inside and outside of our setting. We ensure our children have confidence in their own opinions and ideas, which assist in organising our activities and environment. Our children are provided with the knowledge and skills to become lifelong learners.
In Reception, children are able to access indoor and outdoor provision throughout the day. We have a large, shared learning environment, consisting of two classroom areas, a creative area, a role play area and a reading area. We also have an outdoor space to continue our learning outside of the classroom. Our classrooms promote a calm learning environment, which encourages independence and supports well-being. We learn through ‘adventures’ which reflect children’s interests and learning styles.
The needs and interests of the children, the environment and the time of year are reflected in our planning. We organise the curriculum into topic areas and make connections to all seven areas of learning where possible. The children feel listened to and valued because they contribute to the planning process, which gives them ownership and improves their learning experience.
Through play, children are encouraged to become independent learners as they access the different areas of learning. It is important at this early stage that children are provided with the skills necessary to identify and communicate their needs and wants, look after themselves and their belongings and make choices. This independence helps children to make sense of the world around them and provides them with opportunities to create, investigate and communicate.
Throughout the year, children will have a range of experiences beyond the classroom including, joining in with celebrations, educational trips and opportunities to explore the natural world through walks and outdoor learning. Plus, they will often visit the library in Rugeley Town centre.
We place great importance on providing real-life learning opportunities, which helps children make links to the world around them. During the year, children will be taught woodwork skills, learn about various life cycles and explore the outdoor classroom. To spark curiosity and encourage imagination, we have real life objects, such as loose parts, china, historical objects, natural materials and our role-play area reflects this allowing the children to experiment in a safe environment. The children will also visit the EY Forest School area each week to enhance learning opportunities.
Miss Howard and Mrs Lowe | Reception Teachers
Hello, I'm Miss Howard.
I have worked across the school for 7 years, as a Teaching Assistant and, more recently, as a qualified teacher. I am excited to be teaching Reception for the first time and look forward to supporting our youngest learners as they begin their school journey. It is a privilege to be part of such an important stage in their education and to help them develop a love of learning that will stay with them throughout their time at school.
I have a real passion for reading and love helping children develop a lifelong enjoyment of books and storytelling. Outside of school, I enjoy going on long walks with my dog, spending time with my family and friends and love travelling whenever I have the opportunity.
With over 12 years of teaching experience at The John Bamford Primary School, I have worked across the whole school, however, spent the majority of my career working within the Early Years Foundation Stage, including serving as EYFS Lead. More recently, I gained my NPQSEN qualification, further developing my knowledge and passion for ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.
I feel incredibly privileged to be part of each child’s Reception journey. Watching children arrive as curious, sometimes timid little learners and leave at the end of the year as confident, independent individuals, ready to flourish in Key Stage 1. The progress they make across all areas of their development in such a short time is truly remarkable, and I love celebrating every milestone alongside them and their families.
Since becoming a mum to my two daughters, I now work part-time, allowing me to enjoy valuable family time while also bringing an even deeper understanding of the trust parents place in us. As both a teacher and a parent, I appreciate how important it is for every child to feel safe, happy, nurtured and inspired to learn. I am passionate about creating a caring, engaging environment where children can develop the confidence, curiosity and skills they need, not only for school but for life.
Outside of school, I love spending time with my family. We enjoy holidays, days out and making the most of the outdoors, exploring new places and creating special memories together.
