Choosing a School at the Reception Class Stage
For many parents this time of year brings with it the difficult decision of choosing your child’s school. There are several key things to look for when choosing a Reception class, focusing on five main areas that all revolve around your child:
The environment First impressions do count and as you walk into the classroom you should sense a buzz, see happy faces and children engrossed in their work. Philippa McCarmick, Head of Pre-prep at Sutton Valence Preparatory School said: “Our classrooms are organised with spaces to entice children to learn, or to celebrate their achievements. All children’s work is displayed, not just the best, so that every child knows that their work is valued. There is room to play, with sand, water, paints etc, and access for lessons to flow outside.”
Staffing For children of 4 to 5 years, a team of kind, caring, but firm teachers and teaching assistants, with, if possible a balance of ages is ideal. At this age, children develop at different rates and have varying attention spans. A ratio of
one member of staff to eight children enables attention to each one and the use of a wide variety of teaching styles. Staff should encourage good manners and behaviour, along with respect for themselves and others, at an early age.
Curriculum or a typical day The EYFS curriculum should be followed by all Early Years providers. It tackles the more difficult areas in the mornings when children are less tired. Lessons may be adult led, where children sit down and are listening, or very active where they are moving around indoors or out.
Enrichment Enhancement of the curriculum can bring a topic to life. It can be achieved in many ways for example, inviting an author or fire service member, to come and talk to the children or by school
trips. Activities, such as music, dance, learning a language, or one of our clubs, as well as regularly timetabled PE and games, offer opportunities for children to try different things or discover a talent. They can start to build the foundations for leadership skills and team-building, which are so important later in life and give children confidence.
Community One of a school’s great strengths is its sense of community. Parents want to feel welcomed to events and weekly assemblies and regular communication is vital. Through newsletters, consultations, termly reports and parents’ evenings, the triangle of home, child and school will work to support the child and the family through their time at the school.
Editorial by Sutton Valence School
'Excellent' in 7 of 9 categories
'Excellent progress since the last inspection' Senior ISI Inspection 2014
Mornings Open
Preparatory School (Nursery to age 11) Friday 2nd May 2014 T: 01622 842117 | E:
leckiea@svs.org.uk
Senior School (HMC 11–18 day and boarding) Saturday 10th May 2014 T: 01622 845206 | E:
websterk@svs.org.uk
www.svs.org.uk 28 Mid Kent Living Advert ref: 0314WS/MKL
'Excellent' in all ISI Inspection categories
Traditional values in
a strong community Prep ISI Inspection 2014
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