Reception 2026 Stay and Play

16. “Leaders in the early years have a deep understanding of the needs of the children in Reception. They combine high expectations for pupils with a nurturing and caring approach.”

22. “Teachers in Reception encourage the children to talk with purpose and pupils learn to articulate themselves confidently and clearly. Teachers of older pupils encourage debate and discussion in class. Pupils are able to explain complex ideas to adults and their peers.”

24. “Teachers have deep subject knowledge and specialist teachers work with all year groups. Children in Reception receive specialist music teaching and pupils in the junior school spend time in the design technology workshop. Pupils gain the aesthetic and technical skills to express themselves creatively.”

29. “Children develop their social and physical skills through carefully planned play in the outdoor area. Children in the setting typically meet the early learning goals by the end of their time in Reception”