Ash Class – Autumn

There is lots of exciting learning happening in Ash Class this term.

English:

In English, we will enjoying the story books Paper Dolls and Owl Babies.

We will explore the characters and the relationships that exist within the stories. Throughout each week, we will look at different aspects such as prediction and sequencing events, describing characters, respond imaginatively to the story, making posters and writing labels/captions and writing simple sentences.

Mathematics:

In mathematics, this term in Reception, children will begin to explore early mathematical ideas through play, stories, songs, and practical activities. The focus will be on developing a strong foundation in number and pattern.

  • Match, Sort & Compare – noticing similarities and differences, grouping objects, and beginning to compare amounts.
  • Representing Numbers to 5 – recognising numbers in different ways (objects, fingers, marks) and beginning to subitise (see small amounts without counting).
  • Comparing & Ordering – using language such as “more than,” “fewer than,” and “the same as.”
  • Exploring Shape & Pattern – recognising and describing simple shapes and spotting patterns in the environment.
  • Positional Language – using words like “in,” “on,” “under,” “next to,” and “behind.”
  • Introducing Zero – understanding the concept of nothing/zero.
  • One More & One Less – beginning to see how numbers grow and shrink by one.

The emphasis is on building confidence, enjoyment, and curiosity with numbers and shapes in everyday life, helping children to become enthusiastic and secure early mathematicians.

Science

This term in Reception, children will be learning about Our Body, Health and Safety, and Seasons and Weather. They will explore how to look after themselves by eating well, keeping active, and staying safe. The children will also discover the changes that happen in the natural world as the seasons change, observing weather patterns and talking about how these affect what we wear and do. These topics help children to develop an early understanding of healthy lifestyles and the world around them.

Physical Education

In P.E. this term, children will focus on developing their fundamental movement and gross motor skills. They will take part in a range of activities including multi-sports, dance, and throwing and catching games, which will help to build their coordination, balance, and confidence in moving their bodies in different ways.

R.E – Why do Christians perform Nativity plays at Christmas?

In RE, we will be asking: Why do Christians perform Nativity plays at Christmas? The children will learn that Christians tell the story of Jesus being born at Christmas. Acting out the Nativity helps Christians remember and celebrate this special story every year.

French – Under the Sea and In the Jungle

This term, the children will enjoy learning French through the Language Angels programme. They will explore traditional French nursery rhymes and songs, helping them to develop early language skills in a fun and engaging way. Singing and joining in with actions will build their confidence, introduce them to new sounds, and spark an interest in other languages and cultures.

PSHE

In PSHE this term, children will be learning about Friendship and Family and Safe Relationships. They will explore what makes a good friend, the importance of kindness, and how families can be similar or different but are always special. The children will also begin to understand how to keep themselves safe, including learning about trusted adults they can talk to if they need help. These units help to build children’s confidence, wellbeing and understanding of positive relationships.

Music

In music this term, the children will take part in the Sing Up programme. They will enjoy learning and performing songs such as I’ve Got a Grumpy Face and Row, Row, Row Your Boat, helping them to explore rhythm, pitch, and expression through singing and actions. They will also listen to and respond to the orchestral piece The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, developing their listening skills and imagination as they experience music from a different style and tradition.

Computing

In Computing this term, children will be developing their mouse and trackpad skills, learning how to control and use them to move objects on a screen and complete simple tasks. They will also be introduced to robots, exploring how they work and following simple instructions to make them move. These activities help children to build early digital skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence in using technology safely and purposefully.

Design and Technology

In Textiles, children will explore their creativity by making Fabric Faces and sock puppets, learning to join and decorate materials while developing fine motor skills.

In Mechanical Systems, they will design and create birds with moving parts, such as owls, discovering how simple mechanisms can make their creations move. These activities encourage imagination, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.

Art and Design

In Art this term, children will be inspired by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, exploring how objects can be used to create imaginative portraits. They will also focus on drawing and painting self-portraits, learning to observe and represent themselves creatively. Through the colour wheel and colour mixing, children will experiment with combining colours, including activities inspired by The Colour Monster, to understand how colours can express feelings and ideas.