Our goal is to help children reach their full potential, no matter where they start, by nurturing confident, curious, and resilient learners.
We know that the early years are a magical and important time in your child’s development. That’s why we focus on building strong foundations for the future, helping children feel safe, supported, and excited about learning. Through warm relationships and a caring environment, we help children thrive both personally and academically.
Our curriculum is designed to be inclusive and ambitious, with clear, progressive steps that support every child’s growth. We set high expectations and encourage children to become the best version of themselves, independent thinkers who are motivated to explore, take risks, and develop essential life skills.
At Bishop Alexander, your child will be part of a welcoming school community where respect, kindness, and belonging are at the heart of everything we do. We guide children to live by our core values, helping them grow into thoughtful, capable individuals who are ready for the journey ahead.
Join us at one of our upcoming events in July and September where you can meet Mrs Spencelayh and the friendly early years teaching team, see lessons in action and ask any questions about the admissions process.
Our curriculum follows the EYFS Framework and is divided into 7 areas of learning.
The 3 prime areas are:
The 4 specific areas are:
At Bishop Alexander L.E.A.D Academy, we bring learning to life through a thematic approach that captures children’s imaginations and builds on their natural interests. Our topics are carefully chosen to provide rich, diverse learning experiences while developing the essential knowledge and skills children need to succeed.
We believe that play is powerful. That’s why our early years curriculum blends adult-guided learning with child-initiated play, giving children the freedom to explore, imagine, and create. Through hands-on experiences filled with awe and wonder, children develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
We use trusted, research-based programmes like Read Write Inc. Phonics and Power Maths to give children a strong foundation in reading and numeracy. Reading is at the heart of everything we do, because we know it opens the door to success across the curriculum. Our teaching is carefully structured, with clear modelling and repeated practice to help children build and apply their knowledge with confidence.
Our approach is rooted in the Characteristics of Effective Learning, which are woven into everything we do:
We nurture reflective learners who are excited to take on new challenges and proud of their progress.
At Bishop Alexander L.E.A.D. Academy, we bring learning to life through a thematic approach that captures children’s imaginations and builds on their natural interests. Our topics are carefully chosen to provide rich, diverse learning experiences while developing the essential knowledge and skills children need to succeed.
We believe that play is powerful. That’s why our early years curriculum blends adult-guided learning with child-initiated play, giving children the freedom to explore, imagine, and create. Through hands-on experiences filled with awe and wonder, children develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
We use trusted, research-based programmes like Read Write Inc. Phonics and Power Maths to give children a strong foundation in reading and numeracy. Reading is at the heart of everything we do, because we know it opens the door to success across the curriculum. Our teaching is carefully structured, with clear modelling and repeated practice to help children build and apply their knowledge with confidence.
Our approach is rooted in the Characteristics of Effective Learning, which are woven into everything we do:
We nurture reflective learners who are excited to take on new challenges and are proud of their progress.
We believe that children learn best through first-hand experiences that spark curiosity and build confidence. Our Reception environment is designed to broaden horizons and nurture a love of learning from the very beginning.
We carefully plan meaningful opportunities that help children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. These include:
Our learning spaces—both indoors and outdoors—are child-centred, encouraging independence, exploration, and creativity. Children are supported to take risks, make choices, and apply their learning through purposeful play and high-quality interactions.
Our goal is for every child to leave Reception as a happy, confident, and resilient learner—excited about school and ready for the next stage of their journey.
We know that strong relationships with families are key to a child’s success. That’s why we value open communication and partnership with parents and carers. We offer:
Together, we create a supportive network around each child.
Our experienced Early Years team uses ongoing assessment to understand each child’s development and tailor support to their needs. We gather evidence through:
Each child has their own Marvellous Me profile, where we share special moments and achievements linked to our school values.
In the first six weeks of Reception, children also complete the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA)—a short, practical activity that helps us understand their early communication, literacy, and maths skills. This is a national requirement for all schools.
We are excited to share more with you soon, including:
For further information, to arrange a visit or if you have any questions about Early Years at Bishop Alexander, please contact us on 01636 680040 or email admin@bishopalexanderacademy.co.uk .
