A foundation for lifelong learning
At Franciscan Catholic Nursery & Primary School, our Early Years Programme is based on the UK's "Early Years Foundation Stage" curriculum. We provide an integrated approach to care and education which is play-based, following the interests of the children while nurturing their spiritual development.
This framework ensures a consistent approach to care, learning and development, enabling our educators to plan learning experiences that are appropriate for each child at every stage of their development through a range of engaging activities.
The aim of our Early Years Programme is to help children achieve the five outcomes of the "EVERY CHILD MATTERS" principle while incorporating Catholic values that form the foundation of our educational philosophy.
Nurturing young minds at every stage
Our Creche is a fantastic place for your child to take their first steps on the educational ladder and learn to interact with other children in a safe, nurturing environment. Foundation stage for early development and exploration.
Our comprehensive Early Years programme includes three progressive levels: Early Year 1 (Age 2), Early Year 2 (Age 3), and Early Year 3 (Age 4). Each level builds upon the previous, preparing children for primary education through structured learning and play-based activities.
Comprehensive development for the whole child
Developing confidence, self-awareness, managing feelings and behavior, and forming positive relationships with peers and adults.
Developing listening and attention skills, understanding language, and speaking clearly to express ideas and feelings.
Building foundations for reading and writing through phonics, letter recognition, and exposure to a variety of books and stories.
Developing understanding of numbers, shapes, space, and measures through hands-on activities and play-based learning.
Exploring people, places, technology, and the environment to develop knowledge about the world around them.
Developing control, coordination, and movement skills, as well as understanding the importance of physical activity and healthy choices.
Exploring and using media and materials, as well as developing imagination through art, music, dance, role-play, and storytelling.
Introducing children to Catholic faith and values through age-appropriate prayers, stories, and celebrations of religious festivals.
Creating spaces that inspire learning
A rich and varied environment supports children's learning and development, giving them the confidence to explore and learn in a secure, safe, yet stimulating environment.
All our rooms are fully equipped with creative and educational activities to encourage development and stimulate children to develop interpersonal skills. Children will be engaged in our planned activities relevant to their age group. It provides them with opportunity and the means to learn independently to be able to explore their interests, understanding and perception of the world.
Our early years practitioners, who are dedicated to a career in early learning, have a responsibility to offer the children in our care this kind of environment, both indoors and outdoors where they are able to access resources independently, pursue their own interests and be supported in these.
Safe, stimulating spaces with age-appropriate toys, learning materials, and activity centers that promote exploration and discovery.
Secure outdoor spaces with playground equipment, sandpits, water play areas, and gardening opportunities to develop physical skills and environmental awareness.
Dedicated spaces for art, craft, and messy play where children can express themselves through various media and develop fine motor skills.
Cozy, quiet spaces with a variety of age-appropriate books where children can develop a love for reading and storytelling.
Spaces equipped with blocks, building materials, and tools that encourage problem-solving, spatial awareness, and creativity.
Themed spaces that allow children to engage in imaginative play, develop social skills, and understand different roles in society.
Integrating faith and learning
Our Early Years curriculum framework ensures a consistent approach to care, learning and development and enables educators to plan the learning that is appropriate for each child at every stage of their development through a range of activities. The aim of EYFS is to help children achieve the five outcomes of the "EVERY CHILD MATTERS" principle while incorporating Catholic values.
Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships with peers, teachers, and family.
Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs.
Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates, and all areas of learning and development are equally important.
In the spirit of St. Francis, our Early Years Programme integrates Catholic values and teachings in age-appropriate ways. Children learn about God's love, basic prayers, and participate in simple religious celebrations that mark the liturgical year. Through stories, songs, and daily activities, we nurture the spiritual development of each child alongside their intellectual, physical, and social growth.
"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible."
Working together for your child's success
At Franciscan Catholic School, we believe that parents are the primary educators of their children. We value the important role you play in your child's education and development, and we are committed to building strong partnerships with families.
Our parent partnership approach includes regular communication, opportunities for involvement, and support for families in nurturing their child's development at home.
Daily verbal feedback about your child's day
Regular parent-teacher meetings to discuss progress
Digital learning journals shared with parents
Parent workshops on supporting learning at home
Opportunities to volunteer and participate in school activities
Parent prayer groups and faith formation opportunities
Give your child the gift of a nurturing, faith-based early education that builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning.