Welcome to Hedgehogs Class

About our EYFS

At Shocklach, we believe every child deserves the best possible start in life, and our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides a strong foundation within an inclusive, nurturing, and engaging environment. Our approach is centered on:
– Progressive learning linked to the EYFS statutory Framework and Development Matters guidance
– Responding to each child’s interests and needs
– Fostering the Characteristics of Effective Learning
– Setting high expectations for all

Our provision supports children’s holistic development through the seven areas of learning defined in the EYFS framework:

Prime Areas:
– Communication and Language
– Physical Development
– Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
These prime areas underpin all learning.

Specific Areas:
– Literacy
– Mathematics
– Understanding the World
– Expressive Arts and Design
These are where subject-specific skills and knowledge are developed.

We are passionate about outdoor learning, which offers emotional, physical, and cognitive benefits. Our garden room base is surrounded by beautiful woodland which provides the perfect environment for hands-on, creative exploration, fostering problem-solving, inventiveness, and a deeper connection with nature. We spend each morning in the woods, with access to our cosy yurt for shelter or group work.

Our curriculum is shaped by the natural world and the children’s unique interests. Learning is closely linked to seasonal discoveries in our woodland setting, as well as topics inspired by texts explored in literacy. We adapt planning and activities to ensure children’s needs and interests remain central to our teaching.

Across all areas of learning, we emphasise the Characteristics of Effective Learning:
– Playing and Exploring
– Active Learning
– Thinking Critically

These core skills are vital for children’s continued development in school and beyond.

In Hedgehogs, children learn through a balanced approach of child-initiated and teacher-led activities. Our learning environment—both indoors and outdoors—is regularly adapted to reflect the children’s evolving interests, new topics, and individual needs.

Children also benefit from enriching experiences through trips, themed days, and visits from community members and experts. Regular visits to St Edith’s Church mark key dates in the Christian calendar.

PE

Please take a look at our curriculum page for more information about our learning this term and the topics we will explore.

Don’t forget to check our Facebook page and Twitter @Shocklachschool to see what we are getting up to!