Learning

At Stamford Bridge Pre-School our learning is directed by the children’s interests and enhanced by our carefully designed curriculum. On a Wednesday morning we have a ‘Rising Stars’ programme for children who are 3 years old at the start of the academic year (1st September). Our Rising Star’s sessions focus on an early introduction to phonics, baking, science, PE, forest school activities, Christmas nativity and excursions that meet the needs of our slightly older children. We host parents’ evening three times a year (with children’s activities) and produce an annual report. We keep a paper learning journal which parents can view at parents’ evening and keep when they leave the Pre-School.

Visit to Askham Bryan Wildlife & Conservation Park

Rising Star’s Group (3-4 year olds)

The trip to Askham Bryan Wildlife & Conservation Park offers children a valuable opportunity to connect with nature, learn about animals and their habitats and sparks curiosity about the natural world. This is all through hands-on, real-life experiences that support the EYFS curriculum and create lasting memories.

Nativity

Rising Star’s Group (3-4 year olds)

The nativity offers a joyful opportunity for our young children to build confidence, develop communication skills and cultural awareness. It is an experience that is often deeply valued and warmly remembered by parents and family.

Forest School Learning

Forest School learning offers children valuable, hands-on experiences in a natural environment, which helps them build confidence, resilience and a deep connection with the outdoors through exploration and play.

Understanding the World

The Understanding the World strand in the EYFS encourages children to explore their environment, people, cultures and the natural world through observation, discussion and hands-on experiences. It fosters curiosity, respect for diversity, and a strong foundation for understanding how things work and change. At our setting, we offer an excellent programme of science investigations and baking activities that enrich learning in this area and across the wider EYFS curriculum.

Literacy, Communication & Language

Literacy, Communication and Language are central to the EYFS, supporting children to develop speaking, listening, reading and early writing skills. We create a language-rich environment where children are encouraged to express themselves, build vocabulary and engage in meaningful conversations. These skills are embedded across the curriculum through storytelling, role play, mark-making, songs and everyday interactions that make learning fun and purposeful.

Mathematics

Mathematical development in the EYFS supports children’s understanding of numbers, shapes, patterns and measures through practical, hands-on experiences. We embed maths across the curriculum through play, stories, baking, outdoor learning and daily routines. These help children apply mathematical thinking in meaningful, real-life contexts.

Personal, Social and Emotional

Personal, Social and Emotional Development in the EYFS helps children build confidence, form positive relationships and understand their emotions. At our setting, we support this by fostering a caring, inclusive environment and providing a healthy daily snack that encourages independence, social interaction and good habits.

Expressive Arts & Design

Expressive Arts and Design in the EYFS encourages children to explore their creativity through music, movement, role play and a wide range of materials and media. These experiences help children develop imagination, self-expression and confidence whilst supporting their communication and problem-solving skills.

Physical Learning

Physical development in the EYFS supports children’s growing strength, coordination and movement through both fine and gross motor activities. From climbing, running and balancing to mark-making and manipulating tools, these experiences build the physical confidence and control needed for healthy growth and future learning.

The Characteristics of Effective Learning

The Characteristics of Effective Learning are woven throughout the curriculum, underpinning every activity and interaction. Children are supported to play and explore, actively engage with their learning, and develop critical thinking skills. These characteristics help them become curious, motivated and resilient learners who enjoy discovering new things and solving problems both independently and with others.