EYFS New Starters

At Outwoods Edge Primary School, children in our Early Years Foundation Stage “get off to a flying start.” We create a happy, safe and nurturing environment where children quickly feel secure and develop confidence and independence as learners. Staff establish “a calm, structured environment where routines are clear and expectations are consistent,” which supports children to settle well and feel safe from their very first days at school.

Our exciting and engaging Early Years curriculum is carefully planned to inspire children to develop a love of learning. It clearly sets out the knowledge and skills children need to learn, ensuring progression from the first day of school through to the end of Reception. We value children’s prior experiences and build upon what they already know, recognising how crucial the Early Years Foundation Stage is in laying firm foundations for learning throughout school and beyond.

A strong emphasis is placed on communication and language. We are proud to offer a language‑rich curriculum, recognising how essential this is to children’s development. As noted by Ofsted, “staff place a clear emphasis on developing children’s spoken language.” Through well‑planned activities, group work and purposeful play, adults model precise vocabulary and high‑quality communication, enabling children to express their thoughts, ideas and feelings with growing confidence.

Early reading is a high priority at Outwoods Edge. “Leaders prioritise early reading, ensuring that children begin learning to read as soon as they join the school.” Children show enthusiasm for books and enjoy sharing stories with adults and their peers. Daily teaching of phonics, key vocabulary and early number ensures children “steadily build key knowledge.” Staff carefully assess children’s understanding and adapt learning to ensure that “every child can join in and learn.”

Our indoor and outdoor learning environments are an integral part of our provision. Both spaces are stimulating, purposeful and carefully designed to encourage curiosity, resilience and independence. Children safely explore, take appropriate risks and challenge their own learning, helping them to develop problem‑solving skills, physical development and positive relationships. Throughout the day, learning is delivered through a play‑based approach that balances teacher‑directed teaching with child‑initiated exploration. Children “learn and play happily together,” developing the skills and attitudes they need to be “ready for Year 1.”

We believe that play should be fun, engaging and appropriately challenging. Our skilled Early Years practitioners provide high‑quality interactions, extend learning through meaningful conversations and act as positive role models. Striving to be the best we can be is at the heart of our ethos, and we are committed to providing children with the very best possible start to their school life.

We work closely and collaboratively with parents and carers, valuing the importance of home experiences and partnerships. “The school works in partnership with parents and carers to ensure that children’s development needs are fully understood.” We use Tapestry to share children’s learning and development, celebrating achievements both in school and at home. Parents and carers are encouraged to contribute, allowing children to share their experiences and learning with their classmates.

At Outwoods Edge, we are committed to ensuring that all children are supported to succeed. “Leaders identify children’s special educational needs and/or disabilities promptly,” and work with external professionals where necessary to ensure appropriate support is in place. As a result, children “progress well from their varied starting points and achieve outcomes broadly in line with national averages.”

We understand how important it is for children and families to experience a smooth and positive transition into school. Our transition process begins as soon as a place is offered, with opportunities for parents to attend induction meetings and for children to become familiar with staff and their new environment. We work closely with feeder pre‑schools and early years settings, sharing information and, where appropriate, visiting settings to support each child’s transition. Through strong partnerships and careful planning, we ensure every child feels confident, valued and ready for the exciting journey ahead.