Understanding the FS1 Curriculum at Tappy Toes Nursery
As your little one takes their first steps into formal education, selecting the right setting is vital. Tappy Toes Nursery’s Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) program, also known as the Little Explorers Foundation Class, has been thoughtfully designed to promote children’s development in an engaging and nurturing setting. Here’s an in-depth look into what makes the FS1 curriculum at Tappy Toes Nursery an exceptional choice for children aged three and above.
What is FS1 at Tappy Toes?
The FS1 curriculum is an early childhood educational program focused on children’s development through play, structured learning, and exploration.
Designed for children aged three and up, the FS1 classroom is equipped with modern educational resources and continuous development areas. These include sensory corners, construction zones, literacy and numeracy areas, and reading nooks that encourage curiosity and learning through play.
Key Components of FS1 at Tappy Toes:
- Interactive Learning Zones: Each area in the classroom is purposefully designed to stimulate different aspects of a child’s development. The sensory corners enhance tactile learning, the construction zones promote creativity, and the literacy and numeracy areas help build foundational skills.
- Qualified and Caring Staff: Our FS1 program is staffed by certified teachers and assistants trained in paediatric care, first aid, and safety. They are equipped to support each child’s unique needs, from feeding and potty training to language development.
FS1 Curriculum: A Holistic Approach to Early Years Learning
The early years learning FS1 curriculum at Tappy Toes Nursery is carefully curated to provide a balanced approach to learning. With a blend of teacher-led and child-initiated activities, it nurtures social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. Here’s a closer look at the curriculum’s focus areas:
Foundation Stage 1 Activities
- Sensory and Motor Skills Development: Activities such as sensory play and hands-on experiences help children explore their world through touch, sound, and movement. These experiences aid in developing fine motor skills and enhance physical coordination.
- Language and Speech Development: Storytime, singing, and phonics exercises encourage children to develop their language skills. Our educators use interactive tools and exercises to help children recognize sounds, build vocabulary, and express themselves confidently.
- Numeracy and Literacy Foundations: Early exposure to numbers and letters lays the groundwork for future learning. Our numeracy and literacy corners engage children in games and activities that make counting, reading, and writing fun and accessible.
- Physical Development Programs: Physical activity is essential for young children. Through indoor and outdoor play, we support their physical growth with age-appropriate exercises that improve balance, strength, and coordination.
- Social and Emotional Growth: Our FS1 program emphasises teamwork and social interaction. Group activities and play help children learn to share, cooperate, and develop positive relationships with their peers.
FS1 Educational Programs: Structured Yet Flexible
At Tappy Toes Nursery, we understand that every child is unique. That’s why our FS1 program includes both structured activities and opportunities for free play. The curriculum offers various formats to suit each family’s schedule: morning, half-day, afternoon, and full-day programs, with classes running from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
1. Developmental Milestones Monitored:
For FS1 development milestones, we monitor:
- Personal and Social Skills: From making friends to participating in group activities, we encourage children to become confident, independent, and empathetic individuals.
- Cognitive Growth: Through puzzles, building blocks, and exploratory play, we help children develop problem-solving skills and a love for learning.
Our FS1 program also includes regular assessments where educators observe, record, and evaluate each child’s progress. Parent-teacher meetings provide valuable insights and allow us to set personalised goals for every child, ensuring they are on track to succeed in Foundation Stage 2.
2. Partnering with Parents
Tappy Toes values the role of parents in a child’s education. Our FS1 curriculum incorporates a parent partnership model, which means we work closely with families to understand each child’s needs and celebrate their achievements. We hold regular meetings with parents to discuss their child’s development, share observations, and align on future goals. We believe this collaboration between parents and educators creates a more supportive learning environment, building a foundation for lifelong learning.
3. Supporting Special Educational Needs
In addition, we have an inclusion team that provides support for children with special educational needs and gifted children. This ensures that every child at Tappy Toes receives the encouragement and guidance they need to thrive.
Conclusion: A Bright Start with FS1 at Tappy Toes
The FS1 program at Tappy Toes Nursery lays a strong foundation for children’s future learning. With its nurturing environment, carefully structured curriculum, and dedicated staff, Tappy Toes provides an exceptional start for your child’s educational journey. Our focus on personalised learning and collaboration with parents makes FS1 at Tappy Toes a program you can trust.
By choosing Tappy Toes, you’re not just enrolling your child in a nursery—you’re giving them the chance to explore, grow, and build confidence in a safe and inspiring setting. From the first day in FS1 to the transition into Foundation Stage 2, we’re here to help your child every step of the way.
