We have two classes in Reception, named after two Pioneers of Space – Sharman, named after Helen Sharman, the first British person in space, and Galileo, named after the Italian astonomer, physicist and engineer.

Sharman’s classteacher is Miss Sophie Stone, with teaching assistant Mrs Bex Bennett. Galileo’s classteacher is our EYFS Lead Mrs May Patel, with teaching assistant Mrs Liz Roberts. Mrs Patel works 4 days per week so our Deputy Head, Ms Hayley Turner teaches Galileo class on Mondays.

Phonics, Reading, Writing and Mathematic teaching.

We follow the Little Wandle programme for phonics in which the children are taught a collection of sounds (phonemes) at a rapid pace, therefore allowing them to blend (read) and segment (spell) a range of three letter words. In Mathematics, we will begin by concentrating on numbers and counting to ensure that all children are confident at recognising and writing numbers to 10 and counting amounts to 10. We follow the White Rose scheme of work and also Number blocks.

Independent Learning Opportunities

Teachers set up the classrooms with a range of exciting and engaging activities that are practical and multi-sensory. Activities are linked to the half termly topic or the key text for the week. Children have a wide range of resources in the classrooms that they can access freely to support their independent learning activities. Activities are set up to provide children with opportunities to practise their speaking and listening skills and encourage them to practise reading and writing throughout the day. 

Reception Outside Learning Area (ROLA)

We are very lucky at Chatsworth Infant School to have an amazing outdoor learning environment. In this area we have a large sandpit, performance equipment, reading area, role play areas, water exploration area, English, Maths, Construction and Creative areas. This large space allows the children to transfer their learning and skills from the classroom, to their outside activities.