Children aged 3-5 years

St Margaret’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) department includes our Kindergarten and Reception classes and welcomes boys and girls from the September following their third birthday.  Both classes benefit from dedicated and fully qualified EYPS teachers who are supported by well qualified Teaching Assistants, enabling the children to develop confidence, independence and a desire to learn.

Both the Kindergarten and the Reception classes are housed in light, bright and spacious classrooms, situated in a modern, purpose-built facility specifically designed for our youngest children.  The children benefit from an outdoor classroom which extends their learning in the wider environment; they also take advantage of the wonderful facilities that the school has to offer including a 25m swimming pool, sports hall and beautiful grounds.

Kindergarten

Our Early Years staff in the Kindergarten follow the EYFS Curriculum to ensure that children enjoy learning through play.  It is at this important stage of development that our focus is very much based on nurturing and building each child’s confidence, to make the move into the Reception class, and full time education the following year, far less daunting.  This is achieved through an excellent staff/pupil ratio which ensures that the children receive a high level of individual attention. 

To assist with settling in and confidence building, we recommend five sessions per week which can be booked on a full day or half day basis.  Structured play and activities provide the foundation for reading, writing and number work.  Creative skills are nurtured and encouraged through painting, drama and musical activity.  There are also plenty of opportunities to swim, dance, play games and just have fun!

For further information regarding Kindergarten opening hours, fees and the daily routine, please click here.

Reception

Children enter full-time education in our Reception classes in the September after their fourth birthday.  We continue with the EYFS Curriculum and the children extend their ability in learning to live and work together and begin to acquire skills in literacy and numeracy.  The emphasis at this stage is on variety and the children are taught by subject specialists in French, ICT, Sport and Music which gives them an exciting start to their learning programme.

For further information regarding a typical day in Reception, please click here.