The Early Years at Harlowbury

Scientists have recently determined that it takes approximately 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain – unless it is done in play, in which case, it takes between 10 – 20 receptions.  Dr Karyn PurvisA child’s play is not simply a reproduction of what he has learnt, but a creative reworking of the impressions he has acquired.  Vygotsky

At Harlowbury our primary aim is to allow the children to learn through play, giving them the opportunity to embed, re-work, apply, problem solve, take ownership and use their experiences and skills.

 A vocabulary, story and experience rich environment supports learning through play throughout the eyfs.

 *Themes are introduced through stories.

*Planning reflects children’s baseline starting points.

 *Phonics is taught using Read Write Inc in small groups.  (Whole class teaching in the first term).

 *Maths is taught in short whole class sessions that allow adults to then target children who need specific interventions and re teaching.

Adults play alongside the children in order to model language and thinking skills and move children’s learning along. 

 We are aware that many of our children start with a low level of vocabulary and experiences and we therefore plan to introduce them to a range of experiences and skills in short planned inputs that they can then use to enrich their self-directed play and learning.

The environment reflects the teaching with children given the opportunity to revisit concepts and ideas introduced through the short direct teaching sessions and is planned to allow the children to become independent and creative learners.

 We aim to provide open ended resources that allow children to take risks, challenge themselves and feel as though they have some control of their environment.

 Use of tapestry on line journal to ensure assessment, parental involvement and encourage pupil voice.