Harmans Water Primary School

In the Autumn term, we support children settling into school and spend time learning our classroom routines and school values. Our project is ‘Let’s Explore’ and we use the book ‘The Gruffalo’ to support our learning. We also do a mini project called ‘Build it up’ and learn all about Diwali. We invite parents in for a stay and play and show them our environment and our favourite places to learn. After half term, our project is ‘Marvellous Machines’. To begin with, we learn all about transport, including emergency vehicles and how they can help us. We then look at inventions and all the different types of machines that we use. Finally, we learn about Christmas and perform a very special first Nativity.

In the Spring term, our first project is ‘Long Ago’. During this project, children learn about how they have grown and changed since they were babies and how life in the past is different from today. Children will be invited to bring in photos of them when they were younger to discuss and share with their peers.  We will look at different families and discuss how each is unique. Then, we will complete a mini project called ‘Stories and Rhymes’ and focus on traditional tales and rhymes. We will also learn about the Chinese New Year and how this is celebrated around the world. After half term, our projects are ‘Ready Steady Grow!’ and ‘Signs of Springs’. This project teaches children about food and farming and explores themes, including where food comes from, what plants and animals need to grow and survive and what constitutes a healthy lifestyle.

During the Summer term, our first project is ‘Animal Safari’. Children will learn about animals from around the world and how to care for animals. We will also look into the importance of caring for our local area and our wider world. Children will also learn about mini beasts and use our woodland area to explore their habitats. Children will also enjoy their first school trip to visit some animals. Finally, children enjoy the project ‘On the Beach’ where we will learn all about sun safety and staying safe at the seaside. We will learn about animals and plants that live near the seaside and explore holidays past and present. Children will enjoy a make shift Harmans Water beach! Also during this term, children learn about the importance of exercise, sleep and a healthy, balanced diet. We end the year celebrating and sharing all our reception memories and support children with their transition into Year 1.