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EDUCATION FOR THREE TO FIVE YEAR OLDS & CHOOSING A SCHOOL |
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The Foundation stage applies to children aged 3 to 5 years. We have a keen interest as our 10 year old has been through this process and we have two toddlers soon to educate through the Foundation stage. It is important to be familiar with the Foundation framework; how it will be applied at play groups, nurseries, accredited childminders, reception classes & other learning centres for children. This information enables us to help and to assist our child/ren in understanding what education they will receive at this stage. Advanced does have its advantages in stimulating and preparing a child. It is reported that the Foundation stage is organised in to six areas. These six areas are: Personal, social and emotional development, Communication language and literacy, Mathematical development, Knowledge and understanding of the world, Physical development & Creative development. It is important to be aware that is reported in various publications that “An assessment made at the end of the Foundation stage is called the Foundation stage profile. It shows how well you child has progressed with the Early Learning Goals and covers all six areas of learning”. The transition from being cared for by parents/carers to being cared for by a childminder, nurseries, reception and in a primary school classes setting, can for some children can be a sensitive one although other children go through this change without being affected and have found it to be an exciting and happy one. It is important to know that for a lot of parents/carers this will and can be an emotional experience as many of us already know. No matter how many times we go through this experience it never really gets easier. We found that being equipped with knowledge of the Foundation stage, its framework and strategy; has helped us to assist in a smooth transition for our child. In the very near future we will be embarking upon participating in the foundation stage again with the nursery that our toddlers attend. CHOOSING A SCHOOL: Choosing a school is a very important decision and not one to be taken lightly. It is important to remember that although we want to select the best for our child/ren, each child should be involved in choosing the school. What can we do to ensure a smooth transition? A few suggestions: Research schools in advance. To ensure that you make a well informed choice, early planning and preparation is important. Search the National School Table, Ofsted report and information that that school has published to show the schools performance. Take the time to investigate and attend interviews at the school(s) that you and your child have an interest in. Location also comes into play. How far are we willing to let a child travel and are we able to reach a child/ren in an emergency/ill health in good time? The choice of school(s) was it yours, the child’s or a joint decision? Does the school cover the subjects that the child is interested in? Ensure that the child/ren is included in the process every step of the way. Apply to schools on time. If you are hoping for your child to attend a school out side of the borough, ensure that you contact the local authority responsible for the proposed school for the application details and forms. You will also need to contact private schools directly for their admissions criteria. Do not miss deadlines. Investigate submitting your application on-line. Please refer to the local authority link. What happens next? You will be informed that the child has been offered the school of their choice. If your child is not offered a place at the school of their choice, you can appeal against the decision. The letter that is sent to you advising you that you have not been offered the school of your choice, will also advise you on how to appeal. CONTACTS: Choosing a school Finding a school to suit your child Appealing against a school place decision Foundation Stage Preparing for the first day Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED) Free education for your child |
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