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Your 3 to 5-year-old and the National Curriculum

Your 3 to 5-year-old and the National Curriculum

What exactly are they doing at school?

The National Curriculum is a framework that makes sure all teaching and learning is consistent. It lists what subject’s children will learn and what levels they are expected to meet. The curriculum is split into 4 blocks called ‘Key Stages’. These are organised according to age. There is also a ‘foundation’ stage for children aged 3 to 5.

At this age most learning happens through play

Where can your child learn?

All 3 and 4 year old children are guaranteed a free, part time early education place (up to 12.5 hours per week) for up to 2 years before reaching compulsory school age (the term following their fifth birthday). Children can learn in several places like: school reception classes, nurseries, playgroups, pre-schools and Children's Centres, and with accredited child minders in approved child minding networks.

There are 6 main areas in the foundation stage:

• Personal, social and emotional development
Confidence, learning right and wrong, developing their own interests
• Language and literacy
Learning to talk, listening to stories, linking sounds to the alphabet, basic reading and writing
• Mathematical development
Numbers, shapes, ideas like ‘bigger than’
• Knowledge and understanding of the world
Finding out about the world, cultures and families
• Physical development
Moving confidently, using equipment
• Creative development
Colours and shapes, making things, telling stories

Will my child be tested?

There are no tests at this age. Teachers will make assessments based on observing children play and learn. This is called a ‘Foundation Stage Profile’ and is helpful in seeing how your child has progressed.

Children do best when parents understand what their child is learning and when they can support this at home. At this stage, reading and playing with your child will be really helpful and fun for both of you.

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Your 3 to 5-year-old and the National Curriculum

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Will my child be tested?

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