EYFS at Richmond Park
Growing Independence and Curiosity
Nursery (Ages 3–4)
In Nursery, children’s confidence blossoms. They are ready to explore, experiment, and develop their own ideas through meaningful play and discovery. At this stage, children begin to make sense of the world around them, supported by teachers who guide learning gently through imagination, routine, and joyful experiences.
“At this stage, learning is all about joy, connection, and curiosity. We build confidence through comfort, care, and consistency.”
— EYFS Team
Learning focus
Nursery builds on the foundations of Pre-Nursery, expanding learning in both the prime and specific areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS):
Personal, Social & Emotional Development:
learning to share, take turns, and express feelings.
Communication & Language:
developing vocabulary through stories, songs, and daily conversations.
Physical Development:
improving coordination, balance, and fine motor skills.
Literacy & Mathematics:
early mark-making, sound awareness, counting, and pattern recognition.
Understanding the World:
exploring community roles, nature, and celebrations.
Expressive Arts & Design:
creating, imagining, and experimenting with textures, sounds, and materials.
Children learn through a blend of structured routines and child-led exploration, giving them both security and freedom to grow.
Themes and topics
Throughout the year, learning is organised around engaging, seasonal themes, including:
- Settling In & Routines
- All About Me and My Family
- People Who Help Us
- Seasons and Weather
- Celebrations Around the World
- Farm Animals and Nature
- Transport and Journeys
Each topic links naturally across different curriculum areas, ensuring learning feels connected and exciting. Songs, stories, and creative projects bring every theme to life.
Daily rhythm
Every day in Nursery offers a balance of learning, play, and discovery. A typical morning might include:
- Free-flow indoor and outdoor exploration
- Group circle time — stories, songs, and phonics
- Snack and social time
- Themed creative or investigative play
- Movement or outdoor activity
Afternoons provide opportunities for focused small-group work, art, and calm story sessions.
“Children in Nursery begin to show real independence by choosing activities, expressing ideas, and taking pride in their creations.”
Developing confidence and responsibility
By this stage, children start to take more ownership of their routines.
They practise putting on their own coats and shoes, tidying their play areas, and developing the confidence to ask for help when needed.
Teachers model kindness, respect, and empathy, the core values of life at Richmond Park School.
Partnering with parents
We value the strong link between school and home. Parents receive:
- Class Dojo for messages, photos, and weekly updates
- Curriculum Letters outlining themes and skills each term
- Online parent meetings via Parents Booking
- Reports and key documents on the iSAMS Parent Portal
We work hand-in-hand with families to ensure every child feels happy, secure, and confident in their learning journey.
Book a Visit or Contact Us
We’d love to welcome you to Richmond Park School. Schedule your visit today!
