Early Years Provision

Our Early Years unit is based on the Development Matters programme, ensuring a wide and varied experience that includes indoor and outdoor continuous provision.

 

We use the seven areas of learning outlined in the Foundation Stage Curriculum

• Personal, Social & Emotional Development
• Communication & Language
• Physical Development
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts & Design

 

All of which is underpinned by our Key Drivers (Emotional Regulation, Independence, Communication). We go outside in all weathers, enjoying our extensive outdoor areas, both undercover and out in the elements!

 

   

We have regular access to both our soft play and sensory rooms, and also to sensory circuits.

   

 

We work closely with Occupational Therapy as well as Speech And Language Therapists, to support our students with physical, sensory needs, regulation and communication.

Hygiene needs are met either in our purpose-built hygiene room, which includes a bed for changing, and each classroom also has a small toilet attached for those who are already toilet trained, and those beginning their training journey. School staff are ready and willing to support when your child is ready to start this process. 

Physical Education takes place with the support of a specialist PE teacher alongside the class team. Life Skills and Employability help to develop not only independence but also includes food technology lessons that initially develop mixing and pouring, spreading, and cutting skills through a range of sensory activities and simple recipes.

Transition

Transition from a student’s previous setting through to joining us at Purple Oaks Academy is a careful and thorough planned process.

Initially we will visit your child at their nursery or current setting and meet them there, talk with the staff about how their needs are met within that setting. We will then have two transition mornings where your child joins us at Purple Oaks Academy to start the process of familiarisation. 

The transition at the start of September is managed with a gradual increase in time spent at the academy. This can be as long or as short as your child can manage. Staff will work with you as parents and your child to understand how best to support your child during this process.

Community Engagement

We operate an ‘out and about’ programme where children are able to explore local attractions and learn to interact safely and confidently in public spaces. This is through both curriculum linked activities and outings, and reward trips. Parents are often invited to  join us on these experiences, to support and to be supported in helping their child to enjoy these new experiences.