Our Curriculum

Our ethos at Holmsdale has been inspired by Early Childhood theorists, with strong influence from Reggio Emilia and Friedrich Fröebel. Fröebel was a pioneer of Early Childhood education and the inventor of Kindergarten. In the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, the "three teachers" represent the key influences on a child's learning: the first teacher is the parent/family, the second is the classroom teacher/educator, and the third is the physical environment. These three elements work together to create a holistic, child-centred educational experience.

"Education Is Not the Filling of a Pail, But the Lighting of a Fire"

“Our task, regarding creativity, is to help children

climb their own mountains, as high as possible.”

Loris Malaguzzi.

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The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

The EYFS is the statutory framework that sets out the standards that school and childcare providers must meet for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5.

Prime area:

Communication and Language

Our staff are skilled at communicating with children and at supporting children to communicate effectively with staff and with their peers. We model positive language and a wide range of vocabulary, making plenty of time to talk in a variety of social situations, including one to one, chatting at lunch and tea, taking turns in group discussions and speaking in front of a group, emphasising the value of listening. The environment is planned as a 'communication friendly space' with spaces and dens for children to go to and talk amongst their friends.