Seedling Class

Hello! Welcome to Seedling Class

Seedling Class is our early years class, containing pre-school and Reception children. Three members of staff work in the class every day:

Monday: Mrs Davies, Becs Wallis and Emily Clarke

Tuesday: Mrs Davies, Becs Wallis and Tracey Iles

Wednesday: Mrs Goode, Becs Wallis and Charlotte Sennett

Thursday: Mrs Goode, Charlotte Sennett and Emily Clarke

Friday: Mrs Goode, Charlotte Sennett and Emily Clarke

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Welcome to Seedling Class, our thriving mixed Reception and Preschool setting where curiosity and creativity flourish every day.

Our Early Years provision is led by Mrs Goode, EYFS Lead Teacher, alongside Mrs Davies. They are supported by Miss Becs, Miss Charlotte, Miss Emily and Miss Tracey who help create a nurturing and inspiring environment for every child.

Our curriculum balances children’s interests with the statutory requirements of the EYFS Framework, providing a strong foundation for future learning. We spend plenty of time outdoors, making the most of our beautiful setting to explore, play and discover.

Our aim is for every child in the Early Years Foundation Stage at St.Mary’s to become an independent, confident and enthusiastic learner who loves coming to school. Our approach is rooted in our school values, inspired by the Fruit of the Spirit – walking together in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

A Unique Child

Here in Seedlings, every child is special and unique. Through ongoing assessment and observation, we identify each child’s interests, strengths and next steps, planning exciting and meaningful opportunities that meet individual needs.

We use Class Dojo to document and share our learning journeys, capturing children’s achievements and special moments. Families can log in to see photos, videos and updates celebrating their child’s progress throughout the year.

Positive Relationships

We believe that strong, caring relationships are at the heart of all learning. When children feel secure and valued, they are ready to explore and grow.

In Seedling Class, we promote kindness, empathy and respect, helping children understand how their actions affect others. We work closely with parents and carers to build positive partnerships that support every child’s wellbeing and confidence as they begin their learning journey.

Enabling Environments

Our Early Years environment is designed to spark imagination, exploration, joy and curiosity.

Indoors, children can dive into imaginative role play in our cosy areas, develop ideas and try out new creations at the art station, build and problem-solve in construction and small-world spaces or simply find a quiet corner for reading and down time. Every area is designed to encourage independence, creativity and collaboration, giving children opportunities to explore, choose their own adventures and follow their interests as our indoor provision continues to develop.

Outside feels like a miniature village bustling with activity. Children can bike and scoot along little pathways between Wendy houses, cook up muddy delights in the mud kitchen and climb, slide or explore to their hearts’ content. Our garden offers plenty of chances for little hands to dig, plant and enjoy the freedom the great outdoors provides. Whatever the weather, it’s a lively community of play, imagination, and growing independence where friendships begin to blossom.

Learning and Development

Our play-based curriculum gives children the freedom to explore, experiment and follow their curiosity. We encourage them to take risks in a safe environment, ask questions and build resilience and confidence along the way.

The Early Years Framework

Our provision is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework, which outlines the Characteristics of Effective Learning and the Prime and Specific Areas of Development.

Our classroom and outdoor spaces are organised to promote independence, creativity and a love of learning. Children can choose activities, access resources freely and move confidently between quiet, creative and active spaces, all within a safe and supportive environment.