Experienced members of staff have particular responsibility for children through our keyperson system. This means that each child in the group has one special adult to relate to, which makes settling into the group very much easier. In addition, the keyperson is in a position to tailor the group's curriculum to the unique needs of each individual child. The keyperson maintains links with the child's home setting, working through shared record-keeping to ensure that all children are supported in reaching their full potential. In line with EYFS guidelines, your child will be observed and assessed throughout their time at Pre-school. Staff will compile a ’Learning Journey’ file for your child that will include information on their achievement and progress. The file will also contain photos of them doing activities and some of the things they have made or drawn. The Learning Journey files are available by for you to look through. Developmental information is also passed on to your child’s primary school when they leave Pre-school.
Preparing children for school is an important element of our work and we are keen to ensure that the transition from pre-school to primary school is as smooth as possible. Since most of our children will attend Whitchurch Church of England Primary School, we work closely with its reception year teachers to ensure our teaching practices are consistent. The school invites future pupils to attend weekly story-time visits and an annual event, so they become familiar with the surroundings. Staff from Rising Fives attend the event to support the children and help the teachers. The Reception teachers also visit the children at Rising Fives to help the children get to know them.
Throughout the term, we take children on visits to places of interest in Whitchurch during sessions, such as the library and fire station. During these visits we operate a ratio of one adult for every two children. Parental help is therefore essential for these visits to be able to take place. We also usually arrange a day trip out for parents and children at the beginning of the summer.