THIS IS OURPre-Reception & Reception

A unique Atelier-inspired Early Years experience for children aged 3-5 years.

Where curiosity flourishes, creativity thrives, and every child is known, nurtured and challenged through a personalised Key Person approach.

We believe children are creative and full of potential. Our role is to provide the experiences, tools and encouragement that allow them to flourish.

An Exceptional Start to School Life

From September, children aged 3-5 will join our exciting new Pre-Reception and Reception community, a multi-age learning environment inspired by the world-renowned Reggio Emilia philosophy.

Children learn within mixed-age family groups led by experienced teachers who ensure every child makes exceptional progress academically, socially and emotionally. Alongside focused teaching in phonics, mathematics, reading and writing, children enjoy extended periods of discovery and exploration through our carefully designed learning environments.

"Early years staff have high expectations of what children can achieve. They understand how children learn and develop and provide engaging learning opportunities, such as sharing stories and singing. This results in children gaining knowledge and developing their communication skills. They follow instructions successfully. The school’s well-resourced and presented early years learning environment fosters curiosity."ISI Inspection, 2024

 

What Makes our Pre-Reception and Reception Different?

Key Person Approach

Every child belongs to a small family group led by a dedicated teacher who knows them as an individual and supports their development.

Mixed-Age Learning

Children aged 3-5 learn together, developing confidence, leadership skills, independence and strong social relationships.

Discovery Time

Daily opportunities for children to investigate, create, problem-solve and pursue their interests through carefully planned learning experiences.

Strong Academic Foundations

Small-group teaching ensures children develop excellent skills in:

• Phonics
• Communication and Language
• Mathematics
• Reading
• Writing

The Atelier Approach

Inspired by Reggio Emilia

Our Pre-Reception and Reception programme draws inspiration from the internationally respected Reggio Emilia approach, developed in Italy by educational pioneer Loris Malaguzzi.

At the heart of this philosophy is the belief that children are capable learners with endless ways to express their ideas, creativity and understanding.

We encourage children to become designers, creators, thinkers and problem-solvers, supported by skilled teachers who provide the tools, experiences and guidance they need to succeed.

Children learn through:

• Exploration
• Collaboration
• Creativity
• Inquiry
• Reflection
• Real-world experiences

Explore Our Learning Environments

The Classroom

Our classroom is designed specifically for young learners.

Features include:

• Child-height kitchen and preparation areas
• Weekly cooking opportunities
• Independent snack preparation
• Carefully planned learning provocations
• Comfortable spaces for reading and reflection

Teachers use the EYFS framework to ensure every child achieves a strong foundation for future learning.

The Atelier Studio

A creative workshop where ideas come to life.

Children can explore:

• Woodwork
• Textiles
• Sewing
• Weaving
• Construction
• Pottery
• Painting
• Photography
• Light and projection

This inspiring space encourages children to design, create, experiment and problem-solve.

Outdoor Adventures

Our extensive grounds become an extension of the classroom.

Children enjoy:

• Tree climbing
• Bike riding
• Nature exploration
• Imaginative play
• Physical development
• Risk-taking in a safe environment

Outdoor learning takes place in all seasons and forms a significant part of every day.

A Typical Day in Pre-Reception and Reception

Why Parents Choose Sherfield Early Years

This section should be more parent-focused and benefits-led.

Children benefit from:

✓ Individual attention through the Key Person approach

✓ Outstanding Early Years teaching

✓ A balance of academic challenge and creative exploration

✓ Extensive outdoor learning opportunities

✓ Specialist Atelier environments

✓ Smooth transition into Reception and beyond

✓ A nurturing family atmosphere

✓ Exceptional school facilities and grounds

"Teaching in the early years is appropriately personalised to meet children’s needs. This enables children to make good progress from their starting points."ISI Inspection, 2024