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- Pamela
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
- Missing- 2 Astronaut toys
- A week of space exploration...
- We have had a very exciting and busy start to the term in the Barrier Reef Early Years unit as we launched our brand new topic Outer Space. The children have shown fantastic curiosity, enthusiasm and imagination throughout the week.
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 Monday 5th January. Gates open at 8.10am and close at 8.20am. We will greet your child on the playground each day.
In school Astronaut Adventure, Planetarium Experience. Monday 26th January
Mother's Day Tea 13th March for all mums, grandmas, nannies, aunties 1.30pm in school
If you need to contact us please email: Barrierreef@stfrideswides.co.uk
