The Foundation Stage is for children aged 3 to 5 years. This is recognised as a distinct stage of learning, when children learn best through active play which builds on their individual needs and interests.

Young children will have a wide range of different experiences, skills and interests when they join at age 3 or 4 years. They need a well planned and resourced curriculum to take their learning forward and to provide opportunities for all children to succeed in an atmosphere of care and feeling valued. The Foundation Stage prepares for all future learning by supporting, fostering, promoting and developing children.

The Foundation Stage Curriculum is divided into six areas of learning:

The goal at the end of the Foundation Stage is to have broadly educated children who develop confidence, social and emotional competence, independence and motivation.

Children access the curriculum through play at a range of core activities including experiences with sand, water, painting, construction and art and music

Staff plan on a weekly basis within the framework of the school's long and medium term planning. Lessons are carefully differentiated to allow classes of mixed abilities to progress and achieve a favourable learning outcome.

The curriculum gives a complete learning experience to the pupil. It is not only the lessons and activities that are planned, organised and provided when at school, it is also the tone, standards, quality and discipline of the school and the attitudes and values it puts forward. This is often referred to as “the hidden curriculum”.

The curriculum should be seen as much in terms of experience, as of the knowledge and skills we believe the pupils should acquire. It should also be thought of as being equally concerned with personal qualities, behaviour and conduct.