Our Early Years department is a real strength of the school. With an exciting and inviting classroom,  new and all weather  'zoned' outdoor areas and a dedicated 'role play' room, our environment is very much part of the curriculum which we offer. 

The curriculum in the Early Years Unit is carefully planned so that we aim for the  majority of children reach the Early Learning Goals' by the end of the reception years. 

The Early Learning Goals are the standard set out by the Government for the end of reception year in England and emphasise  key areas of learning which will provide your child with a good foundation to learning. 
 
All aspects of children’s growth and development are woven together but they can be separated into 7 different areas of learning. These areas are consistent with the Early Learning Goals within the Early Years Foundation Stage for 0 to 5 year olds. The 7 areas are split into 3 Prime Areas (these are the areas the children should mostly develop first) and 4 Specific Areas (these will develop as the child grows). 

The Prime Areas: 
1. Communication and Language. 
2. Physical development. 
3. Personal, social and emotional development. 
 
The Specific Areas: 
4. Literacy. 
5. Mathematics. 
6. Understanding the World. 
7. Expressive arts and design. 

These seven areas are used to plan your child’s learning and activities. We make sure that the activities are suited to your child’s unique needs. Early Years Curriculum is designed to be really flexible so that we can follow your child’s unique needs and interests. 

 
Assessment  All the children entering the unit will be assessed using Durham County Baseline Assessment. Your child's progress will be monitored throughout their time in the Early Years. Our high quality provision emphasises first hand experiences which are provided through planned and purposeful play activities. 
 
Play  is your child's most important aid to learning. It helps to stimulate physical, intellectual and social development.It encourages your child to observe and concentrate. It provides opportunities for self expression and creativity and for practising new skills. 
 
Our Aim  Our aim is to create a friendly atmosphere particularly between parents and staff, we would like to work together and build on the foundations already laid at home to ensure your child makes  progress.