We have two mixed-age classes for our Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 pupils at Frederick Holmes School, the Cygnets and the Ducklings. Each class follows a different curriculum pathway and pupils are placed depending on whether they are best suited to a sensory or more formal curriculum at that time.
Our Cygnets & Ducklings classes aim to provide an immersive and all-inclusive learning experience that supports children in the three prime areas of learning;
o Communication and Language development
o Physical Development
o Personal, Social and Emotional Development
These three prime areas are vital for building a solid foundation for learning. Pupils will learn to communicate to their full potential and to have their physical and emotional needs met. We also work closely with speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and IPASS, alongside other professionals to further ensure these needs are met.
The four specific areas of learning of the EYFS are also key to Cygnets & Ducklings classes and enable our pupils to have a broad, varied and rich curriculum. The difference of offer and experiences provided for these four areas in particular are what sets apart the two classes and their curriculums. These four areas are;
o Literacy
o Mathematics
o Understanding of the World
o Expressive arts and design
All of our learning is very hands on, with a play-based focus. We provide a range of multi-sensory experiences and make full use of our whole-school facilities including food technology room, 4D room, Rebound, sensory areas, swimming pool, woodland area and soft play. We have our own safe and secure outdoor areas and use the outdoors as much as possible. We have lots of fun!
Our staff are highly knowledgeable, dedicated and enthusiastic. They are keen to get to know you and your child and are always available to answer your questions. Children in these classes work on topics and themes similar to those studied throughout the school so they can be fully involved with whole school activities, where appropriate.
