Curriculum

At Sunnybank we have developed a curriculum that encourages the children in our care to develop a love of learning which aids them when they go to school. Our curriculum focuses on all areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), as it helps the children to develop strong foundations to help their transition to school.

What is school readiness?
School readiness is more than just knowing letters and numbers; it supports children to adapt to the more structured environment of a school reception classroom. For example, this could include:
– Be ready to learn.
– Share their thoughts and feelings.
– Have the confidence to ask for things that they need.
– Self-care independently (putting on their own clothes and brushing their teeth).
– Be able to build relationships.
– Respond positively to new experiences.

It is important to remember that every child develops at their own pace , and that school readiness is not a checklist to pass or fail.

How do we support school readiness?
Everything we do at Sunnybank supports indirectly supports the children being ready for school. For example, this could be overcoming separation anxiety, encouraging the development of social skills through interactions, or improving attention spans.

These are some of the ways that Sunnybank supports school readiness:
– Familiar routines.
– Encouraging social interactions through play.
– Developing language through stories, songs and conversations.
– Promoting independence.
– Observing and supporting each child’s individual development.

At home parents and carers can help by:
– Establish routines.
– Encourage independence.
– Read together daily.
– Talk and listen to their child often.
– Practice simple skills like putting on shoes and going to the toilet.