Early Years Campus Weekly Update 5 Oct 2026

Dear Parents,

This week, I would like to shine a light on Communication and Language and Literacy, two closely connected areas that provide important foundations for children's learning.

When people think about literacy, they often think about reading books or learning to write letters and words. While these are important milestones, the foundations of literacy begin long before children are ready to read or write independently.

Every day, our children develop language through hands-on experiences. Whether they are negotiating roles in imaginative play, discussing discoveries outdoors, sharing ideas with friends, listening to stories or talking about their creations, they are developing the vocabulary, listening skills, understanding and confidence that underpin literacy.

One of the most important ways children develop language is through reciprocal conversations - those meaningful back-and-forth interactions where children are listened to, encouraged to share their ideas and given time to respond. Play provides countless opportunities for these conversations. Whether children are building with blocks, creating artwork, exploring water, investigating nature or engaging in imaginative play, they are connecting, collaborating and communicating in a variety of ways.



This is where skilled adults play such an important role. By joining children in their play, teachers can model language, introduce new vocabulary, encourage conversations between children and help them make sense of their experiences. Because the language is connected to something meaningful, it becomes much more memorable and relevant.

Physical development also plays a vital role. Activities such as climbing, balancing, building, drawing, painting and manipulating small objects help develop the strength, coordination and fine motor control needed for writing, while also supporting concentration, resilience and self-confidence.



Rather than viewing reading and writing in isolation, our approach combines high-quality literacy teaching with the rich experiences and interactions that children need to thrive. Alongside our phonics programme, children are developing the vocabulary, communication, physical skills and confidence that support success in reading and writing. By building these foundations alongside explicit literacy teaching, children are well placed to become confident, enthusiastic readers and writers.



Parent Workshop - Friday 9 October

If you would like to learn more about how we support young children's Communication and Language and Literacy development, we warmly invite you to join us for our workshop this Friday. We will share some of the practical strategies and resources we use in school to support children's communication, language and literacy development, including our phonics programme. Click HERE if you would like to join this week’s workshop.

Speech and Language Screenings – 12th October

We are also pleased to offer optional Speech and Language Screenings with Henriette Olesen, Speech and Language Therapist, on 12th October. These screenings are available for families who may have questions or concerns about their child's speech, language, communication or social interaction skills.

Yours sincerely,

Ruth Hanson
Head of Early Years Campus