Reception Curriculum Overview
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Autumn Term
This term we will begin with our theme “Regulate Me”, learning all about feelings and emotions through stories, role play, and circle time. This will help us to understand and manage our emotions as we settle into school life. Afterwards, we will move on to learning about our families and the wider world around us. We will explore what makes us special, who is important to us, and how we belong to our community. To finish the term, the children will take part in a Nativity play, celebrating Christmas together with songs and performances for families to enjoy.
Communication and Language
Children will take part in daily story times, discussions and listening games to develop their speaking, listening and understanding skills. They will be encouraged to share their ideas, ask questions and listen carefully to others.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
The Autumn term focuses on helping children settle into new routines, build positive friendships and develop confidence in their learning environment. They will also begin to recognise and manage their own feelings and learn strategies to regulate their emotions.
Physical Development
This term, children will build strength and coordination through fine motor activities such as cutting, threading and mark-making, as well as gross motor play with climbing, balancing and outdoor equipment. Children will also take part in gymnastics to develop control, balance and spatial awareness. They will learn about healthy habits and looking after their bodies.
Literacy
Children will enjoy a wide range of stories, including Ruby’s Worry, The Colour Monster, Peace at Last and Five Minutes’ Peace. We will also begin phonics, learning to recognise sounds and blend them to read simple words. Children will practise mark-making and forming letters with increasing control.
Mathematics
Our focus in Maths will be on building strong number sense. Children will subtilise (recognising small amounts without counting), practise counting carefully , and recognising numbers to five with confidence. They will compare amounts, talk about more and less, and explore size, mass and capacity through practical activities. Children will also begin to notice patterns and shapes in the environment.
Understanding the World
This term, children will talk about their families, homes and communities, as well as noticing seasonal changes in the natural world. They will learn about similarities and differences between themselves and others, and explore the world around them through observation and discussion.
Expressive Arts and Design
Children will have opportunities to use a wide range of materials to create artwork, explore colour and texture, and express themselves through music and movement. They will also take part in imaginative role play, acting out familiar experiences and stories.
