We have two parallel classes for children aged four years to six years old - Les Hiboux (Owls) and Les Herissons (Hedgehogs). Children can stay in the classes from between one and two years depending on their age and development.
Facilities
Each class has its own room. Les Hiboux accommodates 26 children whilst Les Herrisons has space for 20 children.
Both classes use the science and nature garden off Les Hiboux where the guinea pigs live and there is a pond with fish. The space also acts as an outdoor classroom where children can explore their physical development through digging etc.
Learning
Both classrooms are fully equipped to teach using the Montessori method, working sequentially through materials. Children are also introduced to a broad range of knowledge through project work.
The Foundation Stage follows the six areas of learning from the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum (National Curriculum for Early Years), as well as the Montessori method. Every morning there is a three hour Montessori work cycle, followed by lunch and playtime in Grimaldi Park.The children also partake in 'Show and Tell' presentations, where they put together a little talk for their friends on a topic of their choice.
In the afternoon there is a range of traditional activities and specialist-taught lessons, including French, cookery, science, ICT and music. Music covers singing, percussion and music appreciation. As part of the LSO education programme the children are taken to concerts at the Barbican. Please see Extra Curricular for further details.
P.E
The children in Foundation Stage are offered physical education through different activities throughout the school week. All children who are 5 years old take part in a swimming lesson each week., commencing the term after their fifth birthday. During these lessons, the children are split into four different swimming groups enabling differentiation throughout. This allows the children to feel either comfortable or challenged, depending on their individual needs. Children also take part in one PE lesson each week. PE lessons last 30-45 minutes and teach the foundations of movement, balance and co-ordination through gymnastics. These skills later develop into full team sports, such as football and handball. Activities are regularly changing so the children get the opportunity to experience a broad range of physical activities.Progression
When your child leaves Foundation Stage they will be reading and writing, have an understanding of mathematical concepts and be working independently. Each child also has an 'individual learning plan', which details their interests and provides extension work in areas that require further development; building upon their current knowledge and understanding. These are revised every half term to ensure children are given opportunities to progress.