Why Foundational Skills Matter
Research, including Ofsted’s Strong Foundations in the First Years of School (2024), highlights the importance of securing strong foundations in the early years and Key Stage 1. These foundations enable children to communicate effectively, read fluently, write confidently, think mathematically and understand the world around them. As a school, Hunton & Arrathorne is committed to ensuring children receive opportunities to develop the foundational skills to allow them to thrive.
Our Core Foundations
Our curriculum focuses on five key areas that underpin success across all learning:
Executive Function
Developing children’s ability to:
- Remember and follow instructions
- Manage emotions and behaviour
- Adapt to new situations
- Focus attention and solve problems independently
Early Reading
Supporting children to become confident, fluent readers through:
- Systematic synthetic phonics
- Decodable reading books
- Daily story sharing
- Vocabulary and comprehension development
Early Mathematics
Building strong mathematical understanding through:
- Number sense and counting
- Pattern, shape and spatial reasoning
- Mathematical language and reasoning
- Practical exploration using concrete resources
Early Writing
Developing writing through:
- Gross and fine motor development
- Secure phonics knowledge
- Accurate letter formation
- Oral language and vocabulary development
- Purposeful composition and transcription
Communication and Language
Providing rich opportunities for children to:
- Develop vocabulary
- Listen and respond effectively
- Express ideas confidently
- Participate in meaningful discussions
- Build strong oracy skills for learning and life
