Literacy

At Newlyn, phonics is taught through a consistent, synthetic systematic phonics programme that begins immediately when children join the setting. The Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised approach is proactive, with a strong emphasis on helping pupils keep up with the pace of learning, rather than having to catch up later. Progress is closely tracked and assessed to ensure each child is making steady development in their phonics knowledge. Reading materials are carefully matched to the phonemes that have already been taught, allowing children to apply their learning with confidence and success. Practitioners work closely with parents to provide targeted, high-quality support, and the phonics programme is regularly shared with parents through phonics workshops to ensure they are informed and able to support learning at home.

At Newly, our EYFS writing strategy recognises that children must be developmentally ready to write, and as such, we place a strong emphasis on fine motor activities to build the physical skills required for writing. Whilst writing and letter formation are taught through the Little Wandle phonics programme, Story Dough and Drawing Club are used to enhance writing by immersing children in the world of story whilst at the same time enriching their language skills, developing their fine motor and spending time together with them. Adults consistently model writing to demonstrate the writing process, vocabulary choices, and sentence construction. In independent provision, children have access to varied opportunities to write for a range of purposes.

Maths

The Newlyn strategy for teaching mathematics in the Early Years is rooted in the mastery approach, ensuring that all children develop a deep and secure understanding of number. Teaching is carefully planned with an emphasis on building strong number sense through high-quality, consistent programmes. Mathematical learning is made meaningful by relating concepts to real-life experiences, enabling children to apply their understanding in practical, purposeful contexts. Within continuous provision, carefully selected resources are used to support exploration, promote mathematical talk, and deepen conceptual understanding. Through this integrated approach, we aim to foster curiosity confidence, and a lifelong love of maths from the very beginning of a child’s learning journey.

To support our curriculum, Newlyn uses:

·         NCETM

·         White Rose

·         Power Maths

Understanding the World

Understanding the World in the EYFS lays the essential foundations for the Science, History and Geography curriculum across the wider school, supporting children to develop a strong sense of identity and their place in the world. We place great importance on grounding children’s understanding in real-life experiences and the local context, making full use of the rich Cornish landscapes, Newlyn’s own seafaring heritage and traditions to foster curiosity and a connection to their community. Through purposeful and carefully planned experiences, children begin to explore Science, History, Geography, and culture in meaningful ways that are rotted in their everyday lives. At the same time, we recognise the need to extend children’s horizons beyond Cornwall by intentionally planning opportunities to learn about different countries, cultures and times outside of their own experiences. This includes introducing children to global diversity through stories, celebrations, visitors, and resources that reflect a wide range or communities and traditions. In doing so, we ensure that every child begins to build the cultural capital and global awareness they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Expressive Arts and Design

Expressive Arts and Design is a vital part of our EYFS curriculum, encouraging children to develop their creativity, imagination, and confidence in expressing themselves. From the earliest stages, children learn to use a range of tools and materials to create, explore, and communicate their ideas. They are supported by inventing and recount stories alongside their peers and adults, bringing their imaginations to life through role-play, music, and art. Our curriculum includes a carefully planned progression of songs and rhymes, enriched by links to The Cornwall Music Service Trust, local artists and traditional Cornish songs that help foster a strong sense of cultural identity. At the same time, we intentionally broaden children’s creative horizons by introducing them to music, stories, and artistic styles from a wide range of cultures, helping them appreciate diversity and new perspectives. For example, during Black History month, an art gallery event is held in school. Where possible, children visit local places of cultural interest such as Newlyn Art Gallery and The Minack Theatre to deepen their engagement with the arts. We also provide opportunities for children to share their creations with the wider community, building pride in their achievements and strengthening connections beyond the classroom.