Early Years at Ashbourne Primary School

At Ashbourne Primary School, we believe that the early years are a crucial stage in every child’s development, and we ensure that every child benefits from high-quality early education from the very start of their journey with us.

We offer an exciting EYFS curriculum that helps children develop a lifelong love of learning, preparing them for school and beyond.

Every child is an exceptional individual. We are committed to giving all children the best possible start to their education, enabling them to fulfil their potential and achieve future success, regardless of their starting points or backgrounds.

Our curriculum and classrooms are designed to promote and encourage all children to become confident, inquisitive, independent and, most importantly, happy learners.

We are proud of our happy and positive environment, where staff take time to ensure that children feel safe, valued and full of smiles. Our curriculum is ambitious and challenging, promoting awe and wonder through a range of memorable and varied experiences that allow children’s creativity and curiosity to flourish.

We also ensure that all children’s individual needs are met through careful planning and assessment, identifying and addressing any barriers early and providing additional support or intervention where required.

 

Learning Through Play

We understand that play is an integral part of learning and is at the heart of our early years curriculum.

We believe that the right balance of adult-directed teaching and uninterrupted child-initiated play ensures the best outcomes for all pupils. Through play, children develop:

• Language and communication
• Independence and confidence
• Problem-solving and thinking skills
• Creativity and imagination

Warm and positive relationships between staff and children, alongside consistent routines and strong partnerships with parents, are key to supporting children’s development.

 

Our Learning Environment

We work hard to provide a stimulating, well-structured, safe and active learning environment, both indoors and outdoors.

Our environment offers exciting opportunities that promote challenge, exploration and adventure, supporting children to develop into learners who love school and love learning.

 

Our Curriculum in Action

Our curriculum is brought to life through engaging and meaningful experiences that promote curiosity and discussion.

WOW Wednesday

Children take part in weekly WOW Wednesday investigations, where they are introduced to exciting stimuli that inspire curiosity, questioning and learning.

Curiosity Cube

Our Curiosity Cube encourages children to observe, think and discuss what they can see. These sessions support the development of language, communication and critical thinking.

Through these experiences, children develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.

By the end of EYFS, our children move into Year 1 as confident and independent learners, with the skills and knowledge needed for a smooth transition and the next stage of their school journey.

We recognise the crucial role that early years education plays in providing the firm foundations upon which the rest of a child’s education is built.

Linked to Our Golden Threads

Our Early Years provision reflects our whole school Golden Thread priorities:

• Language and Literacy – developing communication, vocabulary and early reading skills
• Resilience and Regulation – building confidence, independence and the ability to manage challenges and emotions 
• Belonging and Becoming – ensuring children feel safe, happy, valued and ready to learn