Our Early Years is a happy and stimulating place where children can get the very best start to their school life. Our Early Years team work with their multi-disciplinary colleagues to ensure each child follows an individualised programme which builds on their strengths and interests whilst making sure they achieve to the best of their ability in all areas of learning.
Care and guidance
We recognise that every child has their own needs. These are met by forming close relationships between staff, children and their families. By working together, the team support early development and learning, nurturing children’s confidence and communication skills.
EYFS and our curriculum
Our Early Years provision ensures that our youngest children have access to learning that reflects their own unique ability. Using the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, children are supported to learn through the three ‘prime areas’: ‘Communication and Language’; ‘Physical Development’, and ‘Personal, Social and Emotional Development’.
The curriculum is delivered through a play-based approach and children are provided with a range of rich, meaningful first-hand experiences in which they explore, think creatively and are active. EYFS staff use their knowledge and expertise to support children to develop skills at their own pace and level. Specialist staff support learning in aspects of Physical Development and Expressive Arts and Design (music and dance).
Throughout the week, students have access to soft play facilities, a multi-sensory learning environment, input from therapy staff and use of indoor and outdoor learning facilities. Planning and provision of teaching is individualised. Each student has an ILP and appropriately adapted equipment to suit their needs, where appropriate. A multi-sensory approach and Total Communication is used.
Read our EYFS Policy here
For more information on the EYFS, visit the government website
Integrating therapies
Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy are a core part of day-to-day life in Explorers. It is common for therapists to work alongside education staff to support children’s development and access to activities and the curriculum.
Each child has their own named therapist who works together with families and staff to provide a high standard of support.
Staff and therapists also use Rebound Therapy (trampolining) and Aquatherapy (swimming) to support physical and emotional development.