Reception is a year of extraordinary growth. Our curriculum is designed to nurture confident readers, curious thinkers and independent learners who feel deeply proud of who they are and what they can achieve. Every child is supported to flourish, whatever their starting point, through a rich and carefully sequenced year of learning.

Below is an overview of the exciting journey children make across the Reception year.

Autumn Term – Secure Foundations, Big Emotions & Discovering Our Place in the World

The year begins with a strong focus on helping every child feel safe, settled and ready to learn. Through daily routines, high-quality interactions and a warm, structured environment, children quickly build a sense of belonging and independence.

Learning is centred around themes such as All About Me, Emotions, Space, Families, Autumn and Keeping Healthy. Stories, songs, and high-quality texts drive language development, while My Happy Mind supports children’s wellbeing and emotional awareness.

By the end of Autumn, children communicate confidently, make friendships, build resilience and develop the secure foundations they’ll draw on across the year.

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Spring Term – Expanding Horizons & Deepening Understanding

In Spring, children’s curiosity takes centre stage as they explore their world and others beyond it. Using well-loved stories — including the journey of the Gingerbread Man — children compare cultures, climates and environments across the globe.

Spring is a term full of discovery and confidence as children begin to make connections across subjects and experiences.

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Summer Term – Independence, Creativity & Readiness for Year 1

Summer brings a sense of accomplishment as children consolidate their learning and prepare for the next stage of their school journey. Themes such as People Who Help Us, Journeys, Under the Sea, Superheroes and Community support deep thinking, purposeful play and imaginative expression.

By the end of the year, children leave Reception as resilient, curious learners who believe in themselves and are ready to thrive in Key Stage 1.