Reception

Welcome to Reception

At John Wood School & Nursery, we teach through an exciting and creative curriculum that takes account of the latest research on how children learn and think. Our aim is to encourage our children to achieve their personal best and to ensure that they develop their skills and talents in all aspects of intellectual, social and physical development.

Each year group is also assigned an important role model for the children to research and learn about throughout the school year. We believe that connecting with these famous and influential individuals will not only broaden the children’s knowledge but also inspire them to reach for the stars. Reception have been assigned Nelson Mandela.

Click here to find out more about our role models.

Our motto ‘Creating Bright Futures‘ is instilled in Reception, setting strong foundations for their learning journey throughout their school life and beyond.

Supporting Your Child’s Learning

As parents and carers, you play a vital role in your child’s early education. Throughout the year, our teachers and support staff observe how each child engages with learning, interacts with others, and develops new skills. These ongoing observations allow us to plan experiences that are engaging, supportive, and tailored to each child’s individual needs.

We kindly ask that parents avoid using terms such as “test” or “assessment” when talking about the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA) or other evaluations with their child. Our aim is to keep the learning experience positive, play-based, and developmentally appropriate.

If you would like to discuss your child’s progress or request a summary of their RBA or EYFS Profile outcomes, please speak directly with your child’s class teacher.

Phonics and Reading

Reading is, arguably, the most important skill that we teach children during their primary school years. At John Wood School and Nursery, children in our Reception and KS1 classes will be taught phonics on a daily basis. The scheme we follow is called Read Write Inc. Each week, we will post a video here for you to watch with your child to help you understand more about the phonics lessons that they will be having in class.

If you are available to help, we are welcoming in parent helpers to sit with children and listen to them read. Please let the office know if this is something that you can assist with.

Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA)

At the beginning of the Reception year, children take part in the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA) – a short, interactive and practical activity carried out by the class teacher. It focuses on:
  • Communication and Language
  • Early Mathematics
The assessment provides a starting point to measure progress across the primary years. It is not a test and is designed to be natural, supportive, and enjoyable for the child. Parents do not need to prepare their child for the RBA, and while scores are not shared, a summary of your child’s outcomes can be requested.