Reception

At APS, boys join our Reception classes in the academic year in which they turn five.

Our school day runs from 8:45am to 3:20pm, with a warm, welcoming, active start to each day. Every morning, Reception teachers greet the boys at the gate and are available to chat with parents and carers. Likewise, the teachers are available to meet at the end of the school day. For families who need an extended day, we offer wrap-around care from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

As part of our commitment to holistic education, APS offers a 48-week provision, providing continuity in learning and support for Pre-School and Reception boys beyond term time.

In Reception, we offer a balance of focused teaching and thoughtfully planned play-based activities linked to the boys’ interests. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, which includes the seven areas of learning:

Personal, Social and Emotional Development

Communication and Language

Physical Development

Literacy

Mathematics

Understanding the World

Expressive Arts and Design

Each morning includes a dedicated Phonics lesson, using the Read Write Inc. scheme - a structured and systematic approach to teaching reading and writing, designed to create fluent readers, confident speakers, and enthusiastic writers. We immerse the boys in regular story, and rhyme, sessions and ‘Drawing Club’ to develop creativity, imagination and Literacy skills.

We also teach Mathematics daily, encouraging the boys to explore number, shape, and problem-solving through engaging, hands-on activities. The focus is on building strong foundations, developing confidence, and promoting a positive attitude towards learning.

Our Reception boys benefit from specialist teachers in Physical Development, Spanish, Art and Music. These subjects are embedded throughout the week, both in structured lessons and in purposeful play.

We are also fortunate to have our own woodland area, Bell Field, and take part in Forest School sessions, where the boys can freely explore nature and observe the changing seasons, enriching their understanding of the world around them.

The Early Years are the foundation of a child’s educational journey. At APS, we aim to create a secure, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Through clear boundaries and consistent praise for positive behaviour, we help our boys become confident, curious learners.

Most importantly, we want them to be happy, excited to come to school each day, eager to play, explore, create, and think critically.

We look forward to sharing this exciting chapter of learning and discovery with you and your child.

Warm wishes,

Mrs Robinson and Mrs Murrell

Reception Teachers