Page 35 - Teaching and Learning Policy 2026

Early Years

Our Early Years area of school is full of fun; has
exciting experiences and a shower of sparkle! We
firmly believe our children learn best when they are
inquisitive and eager to explore. We aim to provide
our children with an immersive environment where
their imaginations can be ignited, but also ensure
that deliberate practice is at the heart of our
planning. Children at this age learn best through
play which gives them opportunities to: challenge
themselves, problem solve, work together and learn
to lead in an environment that promotes positive
communication, and enables our children to express
ideas, imagine, laugh and have fun.

At Green Gates, our planning has a sharp focus on
the children’s needs, interests and stages of
development in order to meet their next steps in
learning. We recognise that the areas of learning
cannot be delivered in isolation and seek
opportunities to make links between them. We aim
to deliver the curriculum through planned,
purposeful play and present new concepts in
meaningful contexts that enable the children to
build on what they already know. Through child-led
play, every day is different and every day is an
adventure. The children’s high levels of involvement
mean that they are intrinsically motivated and their
play is purposeful.

Underpinning all of the topic based and child
initiated learning, is the importance of developing
basic skills. Children need to have these secure
foundations in place before they can begin to build
on them throughout school.

Children will work with skilled practitioners to:
• Develop their speech and language skills so that
they can communicate with others and learn new
vocabulary.
• Learn how to develop positive relationships with
others.
• Learn how to resolve conflicts with others.
• Develop their listening and attentions skills.
• Develop their fundamental movement skills in
order to develop their coordination and self-
awareness.
• Develop their self-esteem and self-belief.
• Develop their gross and fine motor development
alongside discrete letter formation in Reception.
• Have a strong focus on oral composition
throughout EYFS.