THE CURRICULUM
The Infant School is the official start of a child’s academic journey, seamlessly transitioning from The Hive, or other external nursery settings, into Reception. Given the time, care and support needed to settle into the Infant School, they naturally develop greater independence, form strong friendships and experience a genuine sense of happiness and belonging. Alongside this, we see growing confidence in reading, writing and the development of early mathematical understanding through our stimulating and ambitious educational programme.
Our Infant School’s class sizes are between 16 and 18 children. Taught by our highly qualified and experienced teachers, we follow a two-week timetable that creates and establishes a routine and schedule that is reflective of their future academic years. We believe that by equipping children with a love for learning and confidence in knowledge, there is no ceiling to their accomplishments.
Our bespoke curriculum encourages a pupil-centred, responsive approach to learning, offering a range of subjects and opportunities that are designed with individual needs and interests in mind. Continuous provision remains a key part of the way children learn, achieve and participate in focused and semi-structured lessons as they progress through the Infant School.
The changes and progress made throughout these pivotal years lay the integral foundations for both personal and educational development. Clifton High School’s curriculum is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and places a strong emphasis on exploration, investigation, discovery and problem-solving and is reinforced through our Adventure Programme and regular community-driven trips, visits and guest speakers. It is divided into the seven areas of learning, as follows:
Prime Areas |
Specific Areas |
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RECEPTION
In Reception, teachers continue to use observation as a focus for teaching, considering children’s interaction with activities. They are asked thought-provoking, age-appropriate questions to encourage the expansion of deeper thinking skills, which enable teachers to sensitively scaffold learning. Adopting pedagogy to create stimulating learning opportunities also helps to develop and challenge an enquiring mind.
Topics Covered:
- All About Me
- Festivals and Celebrations
- Coldest Places on Earth
- Ship Ahoy
- Marvellous Minibeasts
YEAR 1 & YEAR 2
Teaching continues to focus on critical thinking, curiosity and embedding positive learning habits for future success in Year 1 and 2. We are compliant with the National Curriculum but not limited by it, so teachers are able to respond quickly to developments in educational practice. Lessons are regularly reviewed and adapted to individual developmental needs, with a broad and balanced curriculum maintained so children are prepared for a smooth transition into the Junior School.
Topics Covered:
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Fantasy in Space
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Food Glorious Food
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Seasides
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Past and Present
