A confident start to learning
Our mixed Reception and Year 1 classes, Ciel and Saffron, provide a nurturing environment where children learn through a balance of play, exploration and carefully structured teaching. Following the Early Years Foundation Stage alongside elements of the English National Curriculum, children develop strong foundations in literacy, mathematics and communication while building independence, resilience and confidence.
Learning is designed to be engaging, purposeful and age appropriate, helping children develop positive learning habits and a love of discovery that prepares them for the next stage of their education.
A joyful, nurturing environment
In Reception at BST, every day is an opportunity to inspire curiosity, encourage creativity and help every child develop the confidence to become a happy, independent learner. We believe that learning should be filled with joy, discovery and meaningful experiences that children will remember for years to come.
Starting School at BST
We believe a successful start to school begins well before a child’s first day. During the summer term, children and families are invited to transition activities that help them become familiar with school life. Children moving up from our Pre-School enjoy regular visits to their new classroom, while those joining from other settings take part in dedicated transition sessions to meet teachers, make friends and explore their new environment.
Parents are supported through information meetings, coffee mornings and individual conversations, ensuring every family feels informed and confident. Our aim is for every child to begin their BST journey feeling happy, secure and ready to learn.
Become confident communicators
Every child deserves to feel confident, understood and successful. By creating a language-rich environment where children hear, use and enjoy English every day, we help them become confident communicators while celebrating the unique experiences and languages they bring with them.
Specialist teaching
Alongside their class-based learning, children benefit from specialist teaching in Music and Physical Education, helping them develop new skills, confidence and enjoyment across a broad curriculum.
Music is a valued part of school life, with all pupils taking part in weekly music lessons. Throughout the year, children have opportunities to perform for families through sharing assemblies, winter and summer concerts, as well as participating in the school orchestra and choir. Additional opportunities are available through drama, ballet and other performing arts clubs.
Children enjoy regular Physical Education lessons and have access to a range of sporting opportunities through our after-school programme. Activities include athletics, football, dance, swimming, kung fu, cardio fitness and a variety of outdoor games, encouraging healthy lifestyles and a love of being active from an early age.
Learning beyond the classroom
Outdoor learning
Outdoor learning forms an important part of life in Reception and Year 1. Children regularly take their learning beyond the classroom through practical activities, exploration, imaginative play and investigations linked to their topics. These experiences encourage curiosity, creativity, problem solving and independence while helping children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Trips, visits and workshops
We believe learning is most meaningful when it is brought to life through real experiences. Children can expect to take part in educational visits, workshops and visitor experiences throughout the year, typically every six weeks. Carefully linked to classroom topics, these opportunities enrich learning, spark curiosity and help children make meaningful connections between their studies and the wider world.
Parent involvement
We also recognise the important role that parents play in their child’s education and encourage families to become active partners in learning. Throughout the year, parents are invited to participate in a range of school events and workshops, including Come and Read with Me mornings, phonics and mathematics information sessions, classroom celebrations and other opportunities to learn alongside their children. These experiences help strengthen the partnership between home and school while giving families a valuable insight into their child’s learning journey.