Curriculum

 

The Early Years Foundation Stage was introduced by the Department for Education and Employment (DFEE)in September 2000 and children start the first year of the Early Years Foundation Stage in Nursery (academic year of their fourth birthday), followed by the second year in Reception (academic year of their fifth birthday).

In these years we build on learning that has already begun at home or playschool providing a well planned, creative and stimulating curriculum in a safe and caring environment.

                      

The DCFS has set targets for the end of the Foundation Stage and these are called the "Early Learning Goals" and it is a statutory requirement that all children are assessed at the end of their Reception year to show how much they can do and know using the Foundation Stage Profile.

  

The following school years (1-4) follow the National Curriculum which was introduced into England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as a nationwide curriculum for primary and secondary state schools following the Education Reform Act 1988. The purpose of the National Curriculum was to ensure that certain basic material was covered by all pupils.

The two principal aims to the National Curriculum are:

Aim 1: The school curriculum should aim to provide opportunities for all pupils to learn and to achieve.
Aim 2: The school curriculum should aim to promote pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and prepare all pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life.

At Holywell staff plan the learning to ensure that it is exciting, interesting and has meaning and relevance.

OFSTED March 2008   

"This is a good school where pupils achieve well, attain above average standards and are well equipped for the next stage of their education."

"Staff have been effective in creating a strong caring atmosphere that is reflected in the school's commitment to providing a secure and happy haven for all pupils."