At St Nicholas Catholic Primary School, we use Read Write Inc. Phonics to support children in learning to read and write.

In Reception, we begin introducing Set 1 Sounds from the beginning of the academic year. We understand that, during the first few weeks, children are also learning to settle into their new environment, develop new routines and build relationships with adults and other children. During this time, phonics is introduced in a gentle and engaging way through short carpet sessions and is also incorporated into the different areas of continuous provision.

As the year progresses, we gradually introduce the full Read Write Inc. lesson structure into our daily timetable. Children are assessed regularly and grouped according to their current phonics knowledge so that teaching can be closely matched to what they need next. In these smaller groups, children develop their recognition of Set 1 Sounds, learn to blend sounds together to read words and begin to apply their growing phonics knowledge independently.

Regular phonics teaching also supports children's wider development in Communication and Language and Literacy, helping to build vocabulary, listening and attention skills, confidence in speaking and the foundations needed for successful reading and writing.

Below, you will find a copy of the Set 1 Sounds taught in Reception. By the end of Reception, our aim is for children to recognise these sounds confidently and use them to blend and read words independently.

This academic year, children in Reception will have the exciting opportunity to take part in regular Forest School sessions within our school grounds. These sessions are led by Rose from Born of the Forest, an experienced Forest School provider based in Harrogate.

Forest School offers children a rich and engaging way to learn through first-hand experiences in the natural environment. During each session, children will explore, investigate and develop new skills while building confidence, independence, resilience and teamwork.

Activities may include learning how to stay safe outdoors, exploring plants and the natural environment, crafting around the campfire, relaxing in hammocks and developing balance and coordination through activities such as slacklines.

These experiences also support learning across the Early Years Foundation Stage, helping children to work towards their Early Learning Goals in areas such as Communication and Language, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Physical Development and Understanding the World. Forest School provides particularly valuable opportunities for children to develop their speech, language and communication skills through conversation, questioning, describing what they can see and do, learning new vocabulary and working collaboratively with others.

Forest School will take place every Thursday, unless you receive a text message informing you otherwise. On Forest School days, children should come to school wearing their own suitable outdoor clothing, such as a jumper with joggers or leggings. School will provide wellington boots and waterproof suits for children to wear during the sessions.

Our PE days are:

Monday and Friday

Children should come to school wearing their full school PE kit on their allocated PE days. Please ensure that all items of clothing, footwear and other belongings are clearly labelled with your child’s name.

PE is an important part of our broad and balanced curriculum. Lessons are carefully sequenced so that children revisit, practise and build upon their knowledge, skills and vocabulary over time.

Throughout the year, children experience a range of activities designed to develop:

• balance, coordination and agility

• fundamental movement skills

• strength, flexibility and stamina

• throwing, catching and ball control

• teamwork and cooperation

• confidence, resilience and perseverance

• an understanding of rules, safety and fair play

• positive attitudes towards physical activity and healthy lifestyles

PE lessons may take place indoors or outdoors, depending on the activity and weather. Children should therefore come appropriately dressed for the conditions.

We are committed to ensuring that every child can participate successfully in PE. Appropriate support, adaptations and reasonable adjustments are provided according to children’s individual needs.

For safety, earrings and other jewellery must not be worn during PE lessons, and long hair should be tied back. Children are expected to participate unless there is a medical reason preventing them from doing so. Please speak to your child’s class teacher if you have any questions or if your child requires additional support to participate.