EYFS at Richmond Park
Reception (Ages 4–5)
Reception (Ages 4–5)
Reception marks the final year of the Early Years Foundation Stage. It is a time of incredible growth, independence, and preparation for formal learning. Children build on the solid foundations of Pre-Nursery and Nursery, developing curiosity, confidence, and the skills needed for a smooth transition to Key Stage 1.
“Reception is where everything comes together. Children discover their voice, their independence, and their love for learning.”
— EYFS Team
Learning in Reception
In Reception, children continue to learn through play, but also begin to take part in more structured, teacher-led activities to prepare for the Primary phase.
The curriculum continues to follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework, focusing on the seven key areas of learning:
Personal, Social & Emotional Development:
managing feelings, building friendships, and developing confidence
Communication & Language:
expanding vocabulary through stories, discussions, and role play
Physical Development:
introducing early reading and writing through Supersonic Phonics Friends.
Literacy:
introducing early reading and writing through Supersonic Phonics Friends.
Mathematics:
exploring numbers to 20, counting, shapes, and simple problem-solving
Understanding the World:
learning about people, places, and the environment
Expressive Arts & Design:
using imagination and creativity in art, music, and performance
Children are guided to make connections across these areas through imaginative themes and hands-on experiences.
Themes and topics
Reception learning is brought to life through engaging topics that spark imagination and build understanding of the world, such as:
- All About Me
- Traditional Tales
- People Who Help Us
- Seasons and Celebrations
- Animal Planet
- Pirates and Adventure!
These topics weave literacy, numeracy, art, and science into one exciting learning journey.
A typical day in Reception
Each day offers a blend of teacher-led learning and independent exploration. A typical schedule includes:
- Morning routines and welcome activities
- Phonics and reading practice
- Mathematics through hands-on games and problem-solving
- Topic-based creative learning
- Snack and outdoor play
- Music, mindfulness, or PE sessions
- Storytime and reflection before home time
Encouraging independence
Reception is where children develop greater self-reliance.
They learn to organise their belongings, follow routines, and take responsibility for their learning.
Teachers nurture a sense of pride and perseverance, key values of life at Richmond Park School.
Working together with parents
Parent partnership remains a cornerstone of our EYFS ethos.
Families are kept informed and involved through:
- 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
Parents are encouraged to read daily with their child, discuss stories, and celebrate small milestones, all of which foster early literacy and confidence.
Ready for Key Stage 1
By the end of Reception, children have gained essential literacy, numeracy, and social skills and, most importantly, a deep love of learning.
They are confident, capable, and eager to take their next step into Key Stage 1, where they continue their educational journey with enthusiasm and curiosity.
“A strong foundation for a bright future”
Reception is the bridge between early exploration and structured learning, where creativity meets curiosity, and every child discovers what makes them shine.
Book a visit or contact us
We’d love to welcome you to Richmond Park School. Schedule your visit today!
