Beginning with Belonging and Busy Fingers
Learning through play
The start of a new school year in Foundation Stage is always filled with excitement, curiosity and the joy of discovery. From our Nursery children to those in Foundation Stage 1 and Foundation Stage 2, the focus is on creating a deep sense of belonging. When children feel secure and connected, they are ready to explore, play and learn with confidence.
Much of this early learning happens through doing. Busy hands and busy minds go hand in hand as children pour, scoop, build, paint, thread and create. These playful experiences are far more than just fun ā they are the foundation of essential fine motor skills. Whether grasping a crayon, balancing blocks, fastening buttons or carefully snipping with scissors, children are strengthening the small muscles that prepare them for writing, independence and problem-solving.
Across the Foundation Stage, opportunities are woven into daily routines to support these skills. A child mixing sand and water in Nursery, kneading playdough in FS1, or constructing elaborate models in FS2 is developing strength, coordination and focus. These moments of concentration also build perseverance and pride in achievement.
By beginning with belonging and nurturing busy fingers, we are supporting children holistically ā building not only skills for learning, but also confidence, resilience and joy in discovery. Foundation Stage truly shows how powerful, learning through play can be.
