Children in the Coral Reef work as part of our Early Years Unit, The Barrier Reef, in small mixed key groupings with a named key person. During the day, they have discrete maths and phonics sessions and explore their topic through a range of fun, exploratory activities, from which they can choose, both indoor and outdoor. Alongside this, children have regular Forest School, Karate and Musical Theatre sessions.
Find out about our curriculum here.
Key Groups/Practitioners:
Beluga Whales- Laura
Jellyfish- Helen
Starfish- Salma
Crabs- Ellen
Clownfish- Maria
Early Years Practitioner- Stacey
Tuition Teacher- Reka
Early Years Practitioner - Kaitlin
Reception September Starters 2026
Please see this helpful Be School Ready Guide and Parent blogs and information
What to Expect in The Early Years Foundation Stage
Here is a useful guide for parents, carers, and guardians about the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) — the framework used in England to support children’s learning, development, care and safety from birth to age 5.
The document outlines what children might typically be doing at different ages (birth to 3, 3–4 years, and 4–5 years / Reception) and suggests ways parents can help support their child’s learning at home.
Phonics
The children in Reception have started their reading and writing journey in school. Here is a link to a video with some helpful information on phonics, including how to say the sounds so that you can support your child at home. https://youtu.be/KUbrJPAt65g?si=H_eK4m4nJvvSFj0X
Curriculum News
The Barrier Reef Early Years Unit
- From castles and dragons to counting, measuring and storytelling, it’s been a busy week full of creativity and discovery in the Barrier Reef.
- An enjoyable week of storytelling, internet saftey and new year celebrations
Key Groups/Practitioner:
Beluga Whales- Laura Early Years Phase Lead
Jellyfish- Helen Teacher
Starfish- Salma Early Years Practitioner
Crabs- Ellen Teacher
Clownfish- Pamela Early Years Practitioner
Early Years Practitioner- Stacey
Tuition Teacher- Reka
Early Years Apprentice - Kaitlin
Forest School is on Tuesday please ensure your child has warm outerwear and welly boots in school.
Coming up:
Term Starts Tuesday 24th February. Gates open at 8.10am and close at 8.20am. We will greet your child on the playground each day. Staff will also be inside for those confident to go in unsupported.
Mother's Day Tea 13th March for all mums, grandmas, nannies, aunties 1.30pm in school. Please come to the main school entrance.
Easter Bonnet Parade Friday 27th March at 11am. On the Playground. Please join us to watch the parade and prize giving for best hats!
End of Term Friday 27th March 11.30am
If you need to contact us please email: Barrierreef@stfrideswides.co.uk
