In order to achieve these aims, this year, we are focusing on:
- OPAl play
- Improving attendance using a range of multiple approaches, for example, greater opportunities for children to learn important social skills and delivering lessons which better meet the needs of the children.
- Mindfulness in the curriculum
- Lessons linked to climate action with children learning how to become stewards of our planet - connecting with nature.
This year, we are placing a special focus on nurturing childhood—celebrating the wonder, curiosity, and creativity that make these years so precious. We believe that play, imagination, and exploration are not just enjoyable but essential for children’s learning and wellbeing. Research shows that limiting screen time has measurable benefits: for example, a study of children aged 8–11 found that meeting national guidelines (no more than two hours of screen time per day, sufficient sleep, and regular physical activity) was associated with significantly better memory, attention, and language skills. We will endeavour to use less screens where appropriate to support children's learning. TIME For toddlers (12-36 months), every additional minute of screen time is linked with fewer words heard, fewer child vocalisations, and fewer conversational turns, which are all key for early language development. JAMA Network Furthermore, children aged 3-5 who spend more than 2 hours per day on screens show significantly more behavioural and attention problems than those with under 30 minutes a day. childstudy.ca
By prioritising real interactions throughout the school day —play, curiosity, and imagination—we aim to ensure every child has the space to grow with strong language, social, emotional, and cognitive foundations.
Throughout this year, we will continue to focus on ensuring children have access to excellent reading, writing and maths teaching in additon to meeting the needs of the wider curriculum with childhood at the heart of everything we do.
