Early Years

Welcome to Reception with Mrs Williams and Mrs Ashman

Children begin their journey at Hetton Lyons in EYFS, which forms the foundation of their school experience and their love of learning. We work hard to provide exciting, meaningful experiences that help children develop their understanding through play and collaboration.

Our broad and balanced curriculum is shaped by the children’s interests and needs and follows the EYFS framework.

A key milestone in Reception is the start of children’s reading and writing journey through phonics. We follow the Little Wandle phonics programme throughout Reception, which helps children grow in confidence as readers and writers. You can find more information about Little Wandle on our phonics page, along with guidance on how to support your child at home on the Phonics for Parents page.

At Hetton Lyons, we value strong partnerships between home and school. One important way we work together is by developing a love of reading. Children will bring home two books each week: one book linked to their phonics learning and one book to enjoy and share together. Both books play an important role in supporting reading. Children will visit the school library every Thursday to change their books.

To help children be ready to learn each day, we ask that they arrive in correct school uniform and bring a water bottle and book bag.

If you have any questions or concerns about phonics or reading, please contact Mrs Williams or Mrs Ashman.

Reception children have 1 PE session per week. On PE days, children should wear their PE kit for the full day. The PE kit consists of a white t-shirt, navy blue or black tracksuit bottoms (no logos), and a school jumper or plain hoodie.

Mrs Williams' class (R1) have PE on a Monday

Mrs Ashman's class (R2) have PE on a Thursday

Our visit to the Laing Art Gallery

Reception had such a fantastic visit to the Laing Art Gallery. The children loved exploring all kinds of artwork from eye catching sculptures, to detailed portraits and even some wonderfully abstract art! 🖼️

They also had the chance to become artists themselves by creating their very own mini art galleries. 🧑‍🎨🎨

We were so proud of their manners, enthusiasm and brilliant behaviour throughout the trip. They represented our school wonderfully 🌟