FOUNDATION STAGE (FS1 & FS2)

FOUNDATION STAGE (FS1 & FS2)

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A warm welcome to our flourishing Foundation Stage department at Hartland. We are proud of our experienced and dedicated staff who ensure that each child’s learning journey is rich and varied.

Academics

Teaching methods in the Foundation Stage at Hartland involves enquiry-based, child-initiated, and play-based learning, with direct teacher-led activities. We follow the EYFS Curriculum from England, encompassing seven key areas of learning: Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Communication and Language, Physical Development, Literacy, Mathematics, Expressive Arts and Design and Understanding the World. Students also participate in specialist lessons such as Arabic, Music, PE, Swimming, Library, Dance and Yoga. The engaging learning environment, equipped with accessible resources, promotes self-choice and development. With a structured daily schedule and dedicated professional staff, Hartland ensures a smooth transition to primary education, fostering a love for learning and strong partnerships with parents.

Enrichment

Foundation Stage students at Hartland enjoy a variety of extra-curricular activities that enhance their holistic development. They engage in outdoor learning to foster resilience and creativity, play-based sessions to develop social skills and problem-solving, and enquiry-based activities to stimulate curiosity and critical thinking. Creative arts and crafts encourage fine motor skills and creativity, whilst storytelling and drama sessions promote language development and confidence. Our unique curriculum also introduces Arabic language, moral education, and social studies, giving them a head start in understanding the world around them, especially the rich heritage of the Arab world and the UAE community.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral care for our Foundation Stage students ensures the holistic development and wellbeing of each child through a nurturing environment provided by dedicated professionals. Emphasis is placed on building self-confidence, independence, and social skills, with highly qualified Teachers and Early Years Learning Assistants promoting emotional wellbeing, empathy, kindness, and respect. Strong partnerships with parents involve regular communication, ensuring consistent support and prompt addressing of concerns, creating a happy, inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

Facilities & Environment

Our Foundation Stage offers a rich and safe learning environment with dedicated facilities. The classrooms are crafted to be bright and welcoming and are purposefully designed with engaging learning spaces. All classrooms have access to an outdoor learning area to further encourage exploration and creative expression. Our Foundation Stage students also have exclusive access to an indoor multipurpose activity room, a creative arts room, outdoor play spaces, training swimming pool and changing facilities.

Ambition

Hartland's curriculum encourages ambition by sparking a love of learning in a fun and stimulating environment. Our dedicated academic team set individualised goals and support our students in achieving them.     

Challenge

Hartland challenges students with a dynamic and adventurous Foundation Stage curriculum. Children explore creativity through art and design, enhance physical skills with engaging activities, and gain technological proficiency. The curriculum also encourages students to explore the diverse world around them through outdoor activities and field trips.

Care

We cultivate a nurturing environment that fosters a sense of security and belonging, with experienced teachers providing individualised attention. This approach encourages natural curiosity and builds confidence, ensuring students feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages are covered in the Foundation Stage?

Our Foundation Stage includes FS1 and FS2, designed for children aged 3 to 5 years.

What learning framework is used in the Foundation Stage?

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, which sets out developmental goals in seven key learning areas, ensuring a broad and balanced education for young learners.

What facilities do Foundation Stage students enjoy?

Our youngest learners enjoy specially designed learning spaces, safe outdoor play areas, and swimming pools tailored for small children.

Is Arabic part of the Foundation Stage curriculum?

Yes, we introduce children to Arabic in a way that's suitable for their age.

How are learning themes integrated across subjects?

Themes span across subjects to make learning coherent and engaging for children.

How is technology integrated into early learning?

We use technology thoughtfully to enhance interactive learning from an early age.

How do teachers cater to different learning styles?

Our teachers use a variety of teaching methods to accommodate individual learning styles and preferences.

How is children's development assessed?

We track development in line with EYFS standards, covering social, emotional, and cognitive growth.

What is the teacher-student ratio in the Foundation Stage?

We maintain small class sizes to provide dedicated attention to each child. Each class has a teacher and a learning assistant in the Foundation Stage.

How are parents updated on their child’s progress?

We keep parents informed through regular meetings, detailed reports, and updates on learning achievements via SeeSaw.

Does the curriculum support creative development?

Yes, our curriculum encourages creativity through art, music, and movement activities.

How important is social-emotional development?

We place a strong emphasis on developing vital social skills and emotional resilience.

Is technology used age-appropriately?

Yes, our technology use is age-appropriate, enhancing learning through engaging, hands-on activities.

How do you support the transition to Primary School?

We smooth the transition with orientation activities, primary classroom visits, and a buddy system.

Are there extracurricular activities for Foundation Stage children?

Yes, we offer a variety of fun extracurricular activities that nurture young talents and interests.

Accreditations & Affiliations

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