Early Years

How do we learn in Early Years at St Stephen’s?

At St Stephen’s CE Primary School, our Early Years curriculum begins with a simple understanding: every child arrives with their own experiences, interests, knowledge and ways of learning.

Our responsibility is to get to know each child, build on what they already understand and introduce them to a world of new ideas, experiences and possibilities.

Across Nursery and Reception, we provide a carefully planned curriculum that combines purposeful play, direct teaching, high-quality stories, meaningful experiences and rich opportunities for conversation.

What makes our Early Years curriculum distinctive?

We see Nursery and Reception as the beginning of a carefully connected educational journey, rather than simply preparation for Year 1.

Children learn through experiences that are relevant to their lives, while gradually encountering knowledge, vocabulary and ideas that extend beyond what they already know.

Our curriculum is built around five connected principles.

How do children learn in Nursery?

Nursery is where many children begin their first sustained experiences of learning alongside other children and adults beyond their family.

How does learning develop in Reception?

In Reception, children continue developing the foundations established in Nursery while encountering an increasingly ambitious and carefully sequenced curriculum.

Our Reception curriculum is organised into six half-termly enquiries. Each begins with a big question that encourages children to investigate ideas, make connections and gradually widen their understanding.

What do children learn across the Early Years Foundation Stage?

Our Nursery and Reception curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which identifies seven interconnected areas of learning and development.

What do children learn across the Early Years Foundation Stage?

Our Nursery and Reception curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which identifies seven interconnected areas of learning and development.

How do teaching and play work together?

We believe that effective Early Years education requires both carefully planned teaching and opportunities for children to explore and apply their learning.

Our adults do not leave learning to chance, nor do they expect young children to spend their day completing formal tasks.

Instead, five elements work together.

Why are stories and language so important?

Books, stories, conversation and vocabulary are central to learning in our Early Years.

How can you visit our Early Years or find out more?

We welcome enquiries from families who would like to learn more about our Nursery and Reception provision or arrange a visit.

Seeing our learning environments and speaking to our team is an opportunity to understand how we approach children’s care, education and development.

St Stephen’s CE Primary School

Telephone: 01274 731698

Email: office@ststephens.bradford.sch.uk