Our Intent for Early Years

The curriculum is underpinned by the whole school values of hope, responsibility, kindness and perseverance and is designed to recognise children’s prior learning, both from previous settings and their experiences at home.  There is a strong emphasis on learners in Early Years, and throughout the school, becoming resilient, collaborative, empathetic and creative within a happy and caring environment and this is reflected in our curriculum.

Our curriculum also aims to support and challenge to ensure all reach their full potential from their various starting points and to maximise the opportunities for meaningful cross-curricular links and engaging learning experiences.  Central to this is learning from the world around us and our community to ensure learning is relevant, interesting and fun.  Mindfulness techniques are also interwoven into the curriculum helping children to develop a positive sense of self and focus and to be ready to learn.  The curriculum will evolve and aims to be responsive to both learning needs and the children’s interests. 

By the end of Reception our intention is to ensure that all children make at least good progress from their starting points and are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a smooth transition into Year 1 and the rest of their school career.

Enrichment opportunities

We provide exciting learning opportunities such as, visits to Harpenden Fire Station, Eric Morecombe Theatre trips, visits from people who help us (police, dentist, firefighter), Harpenden library visit, local road safety walk, forest school trips, local farm visit, Hornbeam Wood Hedgehog Sanctuary and Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust visit.