Spring Term 2 – Week 1

Welcome back after half term! It has been lovely to see the children return full of energy and enthusiasm for learning. We have had a busy start to the new half term and the children have already been diving confidently into their new challenges.

In Phonics we introduced two new sounds ar and or. The children have been practising blending and segmenting words containing these sounds and are becoming increasingly confident applying them in both their reading and writing. In Literacy we have begun exploring our core text Little Red by Bethan Woollvin. The children have been learning the key parts of the story and have written sentences about the characters and events in the text.

In Maths we have been exploring length and height. The children used non standard units to measure and compare objects around the classroom and practised using key vocabulary such as longer shorter taller and smaller. Our gymnastics sessions have also continued and the children have begun practising a new routine ready for a special gymnastics performance for parents and carers. It has been wonderful to see their growing confidence coordination and teamwork.

Spring Term 1 – Week 6

This week in Reception the children have continued to impress us with their enthusiasm and dedication to learning. In Phonics we introduced a new set of sounds and the children have been working hard to blend and segment more complex words with growing confidence. In Literacy our focus text has been Juniper Jupiter and the children loved finishing their letters explaining why they would make the perfect sidekick. We were so proud of their creative ideas and super sentences.

In Maths we explored subtraction learning to take away from a group and write number sentences using practical resources such as counters and number lines. In Gymnastics the children enjoyed exploring movements through games and music and it has been wonderful to see their improved balance strength and coordination. In French we continued learning fruit names practising pronunciation and playing matching games to reinforce their vocabulary.

During Continuous Provision the children showed great independence completing maths and writing challenges including the Super Sentence Challenge and exploring subtraction in their play. We also enjoyed special Valentine’s Day activities where the children created cards wrote kind messages and made heart themed crafts to celebrate kindness and friendship in our classroom.

We also had so much fun during our bounceathon to raise money for our schools minibus! 

Spring Term 1 - Week 5 

This week in Reception has been busy and full of exciting learning! In Phonics, we recapped all the sounds from this half term, with the children showing great confidence in blending, segmenting, and applying their knowledge in reading and writing across the classroom.

In Maths, we focused on combining two groups and writing number sentences. The children used practical resources to support their learning and many are now confidently recording simple additions.

In Gymnastics, the class practised their routine, working on balance, coordination, and remembering movement sequences. In French, we continued learning fruit names and enjoyed practising pronunciation.

During Continuous Provision, the children enthusiastically completed maths and writing challenges to earn dojo points, showing great independence and motivation. We also celebrated Mental Health Week, ending with Wear a Scarf Day to promote kindness and well-being.

Another wonderful week of learning in Reception! 🌟

Monday 2nd February - Our Outdoor Adventure!

Reception had a truly magical outdoor adventure with Louise from Wild One Adventures, inspired by our core text Juniper Jupiter.  We met Louise in the woods, along with her wonderful sidekick Jerry the goat — who reminded us very much of Juniper’s loyal sidekick, Peanut the dog! The children loved making this connection and were excited to become superheroes themselves for the afternoon.

Our adventure began with a superhero obstacle course, where the children climbed, crawled, balanced, and jumped, showing fantastic determination, teamwork, and resilience. We then flew around the forest and along the stream, using our imaginations and moving just like real superheroes on a mission.

After this, the children explored a range of superhero forest school stations, taking on challenges, problem-solving, and working together in the natural environment. It was wonderful to see their confidence grow as they embraced each activity with enthusiasm and creativity.

We ended our adventure gathered around the campfire, enjoying a very special treat — ice cream! After all, as the children agreed, you MUST like ice cream to be a sidekick! 🍦😊

It was a fantastic morning filled with imagination, adventure, and connections to our learning. A huge thank you to Louise and Jerry for such a memorable experience — the children loved every moment!

Spring Term 1 – Week 4

We have had another busy and exciting week in Reception, with the children continuing to impress us with their positive attitudes, curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

In phonics this week, we have been learning the new sounds oa and igh. The children have worked hard to practise blending and segmenting words containing these sounds and are becoming increasingly confident when applying them in both reading and writing activities. In literacy, we have continued exploring our core text, Juniper Jupiter. The children focused on describing characters and settings, using talk, drawing and simple sentence writing. They particularly enjoyed sharing their ideas with their friends and showing how much they remember about the story. In Maths we have been focusing on one more and one less. 

Our music and movement sessions took us on another imaginative journey, where the children responded to different pieces of music through movement. They explored changes in speed and level, demonstrating excellent listening skills and creativity.

In art and design, the children continued developing their painting skills. This week, they experimented with mixing colours and using a range of tools, showing great care and pride in their work.

In PE (Gymnastics), the children worked on balancing and travelling in different ways. They practised jumping, landing safely and moving with control, building confidence and coordination. Their focus and determination were fantastic to see.

We ended the week with another enjoyable outdoor paddock session. The children loved exploring the natural environment, climbing, sliding, and working together in their play. There was lots of teamwork, imagination and—once again—very muddy fun! Thank you as always for your understanding 🌿😊

Spring Term 1 - Week 3 
 

We have had another wonderful week of learning in Reception, with the children continuing to show fantastic enthusiasm and confidence across all areas of the curriculum.

In phonics, we have been learning the new sounds ai and ee. The children have worked hard to practise blending and segmenting these sounds and are becoming more confident applying them in words.

In literacy, the children have been retelling the key parts of our core text, Juniper Jupiter. They have done this orally, through pictures, and by writing simple sentences, demonstrating a growing understanding of the story and its sequence.

Our music and movement sessions took us on an exciting arctic adventure this week. The children explored movement inspired by arctic animals and responded creatively to the music, showing excellent listening skills and imagination.

In art and design, we learned all about cold colours. The children explored these shades and created their own paintings, carefully selecting colours and enjoying experimenting with different painting techniques.

In PE (Gymnastics), we used silky scarves during our warm-up activities, helping to develop control and coordination. The children have also been practising their skipping, which is coming along beautifully. We then focused on backward rolls, and Mrs Winward was extremely impressed — the Reception class needed very little help and showed great confidence and determination.

On Friday afternoon, we enjoyed our outdoor paddock session. The children loved exploring the trees and creating mud slides, working together and engaging in imaginative play. We apologise to parents for the very mucky waterproofs… but the children had an amazing time and lots of fun! 🌿😊

Spring Term 1 - Week 2

We have had another fantastic week of learning in Reception, with the children showing great enthusiasm, confidence and curiosity across all areas of the curriculum.

In maths, our focus has been on numbers up to 5. The children have been exploring how to represent these numbers in different ways and developing their subitising skills, recognising small quantities without counting.

In phonics, we have been learning our new sounds qu, ch and sh, practising blending and segmenting and applying these sounds in words and simple sentences.

Our new core text in literacy is Juniper Jupiter. The children have enjoyed getting to know the story and have written short sentence character descriptions and sentences about the story, showing great imagination and understanding.

In PE (Gymnastics), the children were keen to get back into their gymnastics sessions. After warming up and practising balancing skills and core strength, they worked hard to perfect their forward rolls, showing determination and resilience.

During our music and movement session, the children enjoyed a fun jungle-themed adventure. They moved like jungle animals, explored instruments while listening to jungle-inspired music and practised keeping a steady beat. The children responded creatively to changes in the music using instruments and ribbons, showing great enthusiasm and listening skills. 🎶✨

In French, the children learned about fruits, practising “J’aime les fruits” and enjoying a music video to support their learning. They also remembered lots from previous lessons — super stars! ⭐️

It has been another wonderful week full of progress and smiles. We are very proud of the children’s efforts and look forward to another exciting week of learning ahead!

Spring Term 1 - Week 1 

We have had a lovely first week back in Reception as we welcomed the children into the Spring Term. It has been wonderful to see so many smiling faces and to hear all about the children’s Christmas holidays and exciting news from home.

This week has focused on settling back into routines, rebuilding friendships and helping the children feel confident and happy in their classroom again. The children quickly remembered our expectations and have done an excellent job showing kindness, good listening and independence.

Through our continuous provision, the children enjoyed exploring a range of activities designed to support their learning and curiosity. In the mark-making and writing areas, they shared holiday news through drawings and early writing. In the construction and small world areas, children worked together to build, create and talk about their ideas, developing their communication and teamwork skills.

On Thursday, Reception and KS1 enjoyed an exciting science show with Adrian. The children took part in fun and fascinating experiments and made some surprising discoveries! We learned that cardboard was stronger than plastic and polystyrene when a weight was dropped on it. We also found that paper was better at holding water than kitchen roll and a J-cloth. The children were extremely enthusiastic, joining in confidently, making predictions and asking lots of thoughtful questions.

In phonics, the children have begun their Phase 3 learning, exploring new sounds and practising blending and segmenting with growing confidence. In maths, we have focused on the concept of zero, learning what it means and how it represents ‘none’ or ‘nothing’. The children enjoyed exploring this through practical activities and discussion.

It has been a calm, positive and productive start to the Spring Term, and we are so proud of how well the children have returned to school. We are looking forward to a term full of learning, exploration and fun!

Autumn Term 2 - Week 6

As we reached the final week of term before the Christmas holidays, our Reception classes enjoyed a truly magical and memorable festive week filled with learning, laughter and seasonal fun!

Throughout the week, the children explored Christmas themes through our continuous provision. In the role-play area, our classroom transformed into a busy post office, where the children enjoyed writing, addressing and sending Christmas cards to their friends. In the malleable area, they became little bakers, carefully creating and decorating their own Christmas cakes. These activities encouraged creativity, communication and fine motor skills, all while embracing the excitement of the season.

One of the highlights of the week was our Christmas dinner, which the children thoroughly enjoyed. The festive atmosphere grew even more exciting when we had a very special visitor… Father Christmas! 🎅

The children’s eyes lit up as he arrived with his big sack of gifts. There were giggles, smiles and lots of happy chatter as they watched him come in. The children eagerly said hello, listened to his jolly voice and patiently waited for their turn to receive a present. The room was filled with Christmas magic, laughter and excitement – it was a truly joyful experience for everyone!

We also celebrated the children’s excellent behaviour with a special behaviour treat – Crazy Golf in school! ⛳️ The children had a fantastic time playing together, showing great teamwork, turn-taking and encouragement for one another. There were lots of smiles and laughter, making it a fun and well-deserved reward.

To top off an already amazing week, our last day of term included an unforgettable surprise… two real reindeers came to visit us! 🦌✨ We went outside with our teachers and watched the reindeer walk around and eat. The children learned what reindeer like to eat and how they live in cold places. Everyone was so excited and amazed to see them up close – it was a magical afternoon that we will always remember. What a wonderful way to end the term!

Thank you for your continued support. We wish all our families a happy, restful and festive Christmas holiday and look forward to welcoming you back in the new year. 🎄✨

Autumn Term 2 - Week 5

What a fantastically festive week we have had in Reception! On Tuesday we went on a school trip to the pantomime at the empire theatre. We loved watching Snow White and enjoyed getting involved in the crowd! Then on Thursday and Friday we performed our Christmas Nativity - The Twinkly Nativity to all of our families. We were all amazing on stage; remembering our lines and singing beautifully! All of our EYFS adults are very proud of our performance and the effort we all put into our nativity. 

We have continued our wonderful learning this week; in maths we have been focussed on 1,2,3 with an emphasis on subitising (knowing how many without counting!). In phonics we have been consolidating sounds and have been applying our knowledge whilst reading and writing! 

Alongside our wonderful Nativity, we have been busy with our Elf Enterprise products for the Christmas fair. The EYFS children have worked together to design and make; Christmas tree ornaments. We hope to see you at the fair this weekend where you can purchase on of our crafts! 

Autumn Term 2 - Week 4

The children have been working very hard this week, practising for their nativity - The Twinkly Nativity! Thank you to all who have been practising their lines and songs at home, we are very impressed with your hard work. The children have been trying on their costumes this week and making sure that the nativity is perfect for their performance on Thursday and Friday. 

It has been another busy week of learning in Reception Class. This week, during Phonics sessions we have learnt some new phoneme/grapheme's: ss, ll. This week we have recapped all our learnt tricky words.  We have all done fantastic writing, practicing these graphemes in words and sentences too! 
In Literacy we have been focusing on our core text - A Star in the Jar. This week, describing the characters in the story.  In Maths our focus has been shape; learning properties of circles and triangles; recognising these shapes in the environment; and exploring these two shapes by comparing size and properties. In provision we have really enjoyed drawing/stencilling these shapes with our peers to create designs using the different sizes. 

Autumn Term 2 - Week 3

We began the week celebrating Diwali, we had provision activities such as rangoli patterns in the sensory tray and diya (lamp) making in the play dough area. On Wednesday, the children had a chance to join in an inclusive sports lesson.  We talked about the similarities and differences between people and how some people use wheelchairs to move around.  They took turns to sit in a wheelchair and move around the space to music.  The children tried really hard to control their wheelchair using their gross motor skills. 

This week, in phonics our new learning is: l, f, ff.  We have practised the sounds through lots of wonderful games and we have also applied our phonics learning to our mark making and writing activities. In Maths we have been focussed on the composition of numbers up to 5, using part, part, whole. 

In the indoor and outdoor provision this week we have particularly enjoyed: role playing teachers; creating snowflakes and painting using the water colours in the creative area; and constructing and exploring the loose parts in the construction area. 

We have also been trying really hard during our Christmas Nativity practise! 

Autumn Term 2 - Week 2
 

It has been another busy week for Reception Class. We have been confidently exploring enhancements of provision, which have included creating poppies.  Reception class have walked up to Hoddlesden War Memorial to pay our respects for Remembrance Day.  We have talked about the importance of ‘Remembrance Day’ and why we do this every year - to remember the fallen soldiers. We made sure to stay safe on our walk up and talked about road safety.

In Phonics, our new sounds this week were ll and ss. The children worked hard to recognise, say and write these sounds. ✏️ In Literacy, we have been retelling the key events of ‘Star in the Jar’ through our story song and we have written the beginning of the story in our own words. In maths this week we have been busy learning about triangles and circles and have focussed on recognising these shapes in our environment. 
 

This week in RE, we have been learning about how we celebrate birthdays and how celebrations can be special at different ages. This week in Gymnastics, we have been continuing developing our backwards rolls alongside our gross motor development. In French, we recapped our learning of actions from last week and practised this in games. This week was also Anti-Bullying Week. On Monday, we proudly wore our odd socks to celebrate uniqueness and raise awareness. Finally, on Friday we celebrated Children in Need! The children looked amazing in their Pudsey inspired outfits and showed great enthusiasm for such an important cause.

Autumn Term 2 – Week 1

The children have returned from the half term with confidence, ready to learn! 🌟

In Phonics, our new sounds this week were f, ff and l. The children have been working so hard to recognise, say and write these sounds. We have been applying our new learning to read and write words and even some sentences — what super writers we are becoming! ✏️ Our new Literacy Unit has started this week, so the children have been immersed in their new text 'Star in the Jar'. We have explored the story, the key parts as well as describing the setting and the character 'Yan'. The children have especially enjoyed exploring the story in provision on our story table. In maths this week we have been busy learning about subitising, one more and one less than a number within our ‘Composition of 1, 2, 3’ focus. 
 

During French, we began learning instructions such as sit down, listen and stand up! Finally, in Gymnastics, we practiced skipping and our different positions like straddle, pike and tuck. Reception class seem to have perfected their forward rolls, so today it was very exciting as we began practicing for a backward roll! The children have been enthused by Fireworks due to Bonfire night, so we have had fun making sparklers using breadsticks and dipping them in melted chocolate, drawing their experiences of bonfire night, crafting fireworks and we even had a rocket themed PE lesson! We didn't forget to talk about how important it is to keep ourselves safe around bonfire night and fireworks. 

Autumn Term 1 – Week 7

Another fantastic week has flown by in Reception class! 🌟

In Phonics, our new sounds this week were r, h and b. The children have been working so hard to recognise, say and write these sounds. We have been applying our new learning to read and write words and even some sentences — what super writers we are becoming! ✏️In Maths we have been exploring the composition of the numbers 1, 2 &3. 

We had a very special visitor from Darwen Library this week. The librarian shared some wonderful stories with us and talked about all the exciting things we can find and do at the library. The children listened beautifully and were very keen to share their own favourite books! 📚

In RE, we created a story chain prayer to show the journey of beans from farm to table. We thanked God for all those involved along the way — the farmers, the transporters, the shop workers, and the families who prepare our food. The children’s ideas were thoughtful and kind, showing real appreciation for the world around them. 🙏

During French, we played a fun game of pairs to consolidate our learning of colours! We recapped five colours — blue, white, red, green and yellow — then split into teams for Mademoiselles versus Monsieurs. Congratulations to all the Mademoiselles who were our winners this week! 🏆 See if your child can remember their colours in French — bleu, blanc, rouge, vert, jaune! Finally, in Gymnastics, Reception class have been working on the benches, focusing on strength, balance and posture. Everyone worked really hard and showed such enthusiasm throughout the session — well done, Reception! 

What a busy and exciting week it’s been — we can’t wait to see what next week brings (our last week of our first half term!).  

Autumn Term 1 - Week 6

Well, another wonderful week has gone by in Reception class! 

In Phonics our new learning is; ck, e & u. We have been applying our phonics learning to read and write words or sentences! 

In Maths we have been focussed on recognising and creating repeating patterns.  In our Literacy sessions this week our writing tasks have been focused on hearing initial sounds in words and writing these, some of us have also been writing CVC words and sentences independently! ☺️
 

In French this week, Madame Wardle recapped the children’s learning of the French Flag.  They learned the name of the flag, ‘Le Tricolore’, and the colours of the flag ‘blue, blanc, rouge’. We also surprised Madame Wardle with our French flags we had created this week, we enjoyed singing the songs and waving our flags!
 

 In Gymnastics everybody joined in and listened wonderfully to Mrs Winward. Lots of fun was had in our teams demonstrating different skills with different activities, from forward rolls to jumping,pulling and balancing.
We started with a warm up using brightly coloured scarves and ended with a game of musical bumps. 

Autumn Term 1 - Week 5

Well, another wonderful week has gone by in Reception class! 
 

In Phonics, our new learning is o, c, and k. We have been applying our phonics learning to read and write words and sentences! In Maths, we have been focused on comparing measures such as height and mass. In our Literacy sessions this week, our writing tasks have been focused on hearing initial sounds in words and writing these. Some of us have also been writing CVC words and sentences independently.

In French, we learned about the colours of the French flag and enjoyed practising saying them aloud. During Gymnastics, we practised different skills and poses such as the straddle and tuck.

We also had a special School Spirituality Afternoon, which focused on our school vision:

✨ “As God’s family, together we achieve.” ✨

We learned about St Paul and his letters, especially Romans 12:4–8, which tells us that everyone has special gifts. The children reflected on their own gifts and talents and drew pictures to show these.

Throughout the week, we did lots of exploring in our provision, both inside and outside. The children enjoyed using their creativity and imagination in different activities — one highlight was making conker caterpillars!

Autumn Term 1 - Week 4

We have had another amazing week in Reception! In phonics our new learning has been; m, d & g - we have been applying our phonics learning to read and write words or sentences! 👏🌟 In Maths we have been developing our knowledge of sorting and grouping objects.
 

In gymnastics, we have took part in lots of different exercises such as spinning, jumping, walking on tiptoes, balancing and stretching. All children followed clear instructions. In our French learning this week, Madame Wardle introduced us to some animals in French and we used our prior learning of French greetings to introduce ourselves to the animals. 

We have enjoyed lots of activities relating to MacMillan Coffee Morning, the children have enjoyed making cups of tea and coffee, role playing tea parties, cutting and sticking, and making some lovely designs on teapots. Thank you very much for your generous donations of cakes and for those who were able to join us for this morning! 

Autumn Term 1 – Week 3

We have had a very busy week in Reception! The children have continued to explore the provision with lots of enthusiasm, working together and sharing ideas. Highlights this week included building Lego houses for the Three Little Pigs, role-playing “house” and “teacher,” and collecting conkers on the paddock.

In phonics, we have been learning our Phase Two sounds: i, n, and p. The children have been fantastic listeners during our sessions and have followed instructions brilliantly. We have also been practising forming our new graphemes in lots of fun ways: mark making in glitter, painting, using the whiteboards and even drawing with chalk outdoors.

In maths, we have been exploring numbers to 5, learning how to represent them in different ways and beginning to notice patterns. The children particularly enjoyed using counting songs and games to help with their learning.

We also had a wonderful time developing our fine motor skills through cutting and mark making activities. These skills are really important for building strength and control ready for writing.

This week we also enjoyed our curriculum enhancement sessions with our specialist teachers. In French, the children were introduced to simple greetings and enjoyed joining in with songs and actions. In gymnastics, they developed their balance and coordination through fun movement activities and games.

It has been so lovely to see the children settling into routines, making new friends and showing lots of curiosity and confidence in their learning. We are very proud of how hard they are working already!

Autumn Term 1 – Week 2

We have had a brilliant second week in EYFS! The children are continuing to build lovely friendships with their peers and are exploring the continuous provision with growing confidence. They have been absolutely fantastic in the big hall at lunchtime and have really enjoyed discovering the large playground and outdoor apparatus on the yard.

Miss Clayton has been so impressed with the children’s listening and enthusiasm during carpet and group sessions. These have included phonics, mark making (pencil control), Maths, PSHE and worship. In phonics this week, our new sounds were s, a and t. During focussed provision, the children have had lots of opportunities to develop their fine motor skills, practise letter formation, and write their names.

Outdoors, the Reception children have been working hard to develop their gross motor skills. They have loved creating obstacle courses with tyres and planks, water painting with big brushes, and building with large blocks.

We also enjoyed some exciting extra learning experiences this week, including a visit from the Life Education bus, where we learnt all about our bodies, our first gymnastics session with Mrs Winward, and French with Madame Wardle.

Autumn Term 1 – Week 1

Our First Week in Reception! 🌟☺️

What a fantastic start to the school year! The children have been absolutely amazing during their first week in Reception. It has been a real joy to watch them settle in so confidently—exploring their new environment, forming early friendships, and beginning to show their wonderful personalities.

The children have enjoyed getting to know both our indoor and outdoor provision, diving into activities with great enthusiasm. We’ve seen fantastic teamwork, curiosity, and creativity already!

A big well done to all the children for learning the lunchtime routine so quickly. They’ve been brilliant at collecting their tray, cup, and cutlery independently – such grown-up superstars!

This week also included some exciting ‘firsts’—our very first phonics lesion, maths work, PE lessons and a fun-filled French session with Madame Wardle. The children approached both with energy and excitement, and we were so proud of how they listened, joined in, and tried something new.

Miss Clayton is incredibly proud of every single child for showing such confidence, independence, and resilience during their first week. What a wonderful beginning to our Reception journey!

We’re already looking forward to seeing everyone again on Monday for another week of fun, learning, and discovery. 🌟👏

The EYFS classroom is a special place where the children are the centre of everything. It is filled with beautiful authentic resources for the children to explore and enjoy - both indoors and outdoors. We will be following the children’s interests and curiosity to lead their learning and enhance our provision further, this term immersing ourselves in the children’s favourite books, stories and characters. We will also be providing the children with opportunities to explore our theme of ‘Me and My Home’. This terms learning focusses on children settling into school rules and routines; developing selfregulation skills and confidence to access the classroom environment effectively; and on children identifying themselves within their wider family network.

Welcome Message from Miss Clayton 

Welcome to Reception Class!

My name is Miss Clayton and I am the Class Teacher. We also have Mrs Schofield and Mrs Gottweiss who are our class Teaching Assistants. Miss McDermott also works with our class on Monday and Tuesday afternoons. 

We are looking forward to sharing all the children's learning taking place inside and outside the classroom over the year. Please make sure you check the 'Our Learning' tab to see what we have been doing each week! 

Reception Class Reminders

-Please read at home with your child as much as possible. At least 3 times a week.

- Please can book bags be brought to school each day. 

-Children will receive Phonics/Literacy and Maths Home Learning once a week.

-Children can bring a bottle of water into school each day.

-Please ensure your child’s clothing is clearly labelled with their name to avoid lost uniform.

Sports Days

PE is on Tuesday and Wednesday. 

Children will need to wear their sports kits to school on these days.

Classroom Expectations

• Homework: Sent out on Friday and due back on Monday.

• PE Days: Tuesday and Wednesday.  (please remember your PE kit).

• Behaviour: In our class, we always...

       Use kind hands and kind feet

       Use kind words

       Do good sitting

       Do good listening

       Do good looking

       Be a good friend 

       Share

       Be gentle 

       Hang up our coats and belongings on our peg

       Put our bookbags away neatly

Practical Information

• School Day Times: Start – 8.45 | Finish – 3.15

• Communication: We use tapestry for learning or contact the school office.

• Reminders: Please bring your bookbag and a water bottle every day.