Each child’s development is unique and special. The role of the adult in Early Years is to play alongside your child, noticing what they do and say, and using this to know what to do next to support them in their development and understanding. Sometimes we will make notes or take photographs of what we see to either share with you on Tapestry or to note a key skills or development that we have observed. Our priority is always to spend time with your child and to be present in their play. We aim to know all about your child and to be a trusted adult whom they can rely upon.

After so much positive feedback from our parent’s questionnaires and being aware that many of our parents are busy working, we use Tapestry to share your child’s learning experiences with you. By logging on with a secure username and password you will be able to view all of your children’s observations, photographs and even video to build up a record of your child’s experiences during their time in EYFS. You will even receive an email telling you when a new observation or piece of work is available for you to view. This will enable you to follow your child’s individual progress closely and reflect upon their achievements with your child. Please see more information on the Tapestry section of our website.

Assessing and developing communication and language skills

The development of communication and language skills is our main priority in school. We pride ourselves on our Total Communication approach and we support children through their communication journey as they use gestures, sounds, symbols and words to communicate and make requests. When they first arrive at Ganneys Meadow, all children’s communication skills are assessed by their key person using our knowledge of ‘typical child development’. Following this some children are assessed using the Wellcomm tool kit which helps us to check how much they understand. This assessment includes playing games, talking to and observing the children. If we identify that children are struggling with any aspect of speech or communication, staff are immediately able to put into place a support plan which will enable the child to develop their skills. We work closely with our own SENDCo and speech and language therapist to ensure that children are well supported in order that they are well prepared for entry into primary school. Developmental reviews are carried out twice a year and you will be invited into school to discuss your child’s progress at home and school. Developmental reviews usually take place in the month of your child’s birthday and 6 months later.

Key Person

Your child will be nominated a Key Person when they start in our School. Using the developmental steps, your child’s Key Person will note all your child’s achievements in each of the areas of learning and make suggestions for the next steps for your child. This informs our planning to ensure every child’s needs and interests are met. Alongside this, staff are always watching what children show an interest in. Adaptations to the environment are then made to promote this interest and use it as a learning tool.