St Thomas More
Catholic Primary School
Reception Genesis
Welcome to Reception
Starting school is a very special milestone in a child’s life and our Reception classroom is a place where children are encouraged to feel happy, safe, valued and excited to learn. We recognise that every child arrives with their own unique experiences, interests, strengths and needs, and we take the time to get to know each child as an individual.
Through a rich balance of purposeful play, exploration, adult-led teaching and carefully planned experiences, children develop the confidence, curiosity and independence that provide strong foundations for their future learning. Our Early Years provision nurtures the whole child, supporting children to develop socially, emotionally, physically and academically, while giving them the freedom to wonder, investigate, create, communicate and make sense of the world around them. Above all, we want every child to begin their school journey with a love of learning and a belief in themselves.
This is where the magic begins! Come and share our exciting learning journey with us ...
Reception Teaching Team 2026/27
EYFS Lead
Reception Teacher
Reception Class
Teaching Partner
Reception Teacher
Foundation Stage Curriculum
What will Reception Class be learning this year?
Term 1 - This is Me!
Term 2 - Celebrations
Term 3 - All Creatures Great and Small
Term 4 - Green Shoots and Mucky Boots
Term 5 - Once Upon a Time
Term 6 - Treasure Seekers
Which days will you have PE in EYFS?
Wednesday – There will be a mixture of indoor and outdoor PE lessons. On this day, your child can attend school in their PE kit. Throughout the week, the children also free flow into our EYFS outdoor areas.
How can I be part of my child’s learning journey?
Working in partnership with families is an important part of your child’s education at St Thomas More Catholic Primary School. We believe that strong communication between home and school helps children to feel supported, confident and ready to learn.
Explore our Reception expectations below and find out how you can support your child’s learning, development and growing independence as they begin their exciting learning journey with us.
We will keep you informed of important year-group reminders, updates and information through Class Dojo, helping you to stay connected with your child’s learning and school life.
Will my child be going on any trips this year?
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Cheltenham Literature Festival
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Pantomime
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Zoo Lab Experience
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Local Walk/Bus Ride Experience
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Little City Role Play Experience
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Birmingham Sea Life Aquarium
Reception Baseline Assessment – In the first few weeks of starting school, the Reception Team will be really getting to know and tuning in to the needs of each of the Reception children in their care. Each child will have the opportunity to spend time with their teacher, to carry out a Baseline Assessment. This will allow us to discover more about each child and aid us in providing for their individual needs.
What is it for?
The assessment will provide a snapshot of where pupils are when they arrive at school, establishing a new starting point to measure the progress they have made by the end of Year 6.
Useful Information
Below you will find helpful information to support you and your child throughout their Reception year. Explore our Reception Curriculum Map, Meet the Teacher information, a weekly timetable and homework expectations to help you stay informed and involved in your child’s learning journey.