Starting school is an important milestone in a child’s life, and parents sometimes find it difficult to know how to choose the right school for their child. According to Headteacher Mrs Susie Carroll, at Eggbuckland Vale primary school,“Eggbuckland isn’t the right school for a certain type of child, it is the right school for every child.” It’s not just her view either: the school has been shortlisted as a finalist in the national Pearson teaching awards for its early years foundation stage.
Mrs Carroll said: “To thrive and fulfil their potential, children need to feel safe and happy. Our whole staff team focus on creating a welcoming, kind, and rusting environment; where children can become confident thinkers and learners. It is a privilege to guide children in their first steps along their school journey.”
The approach at Eggbuckland is to always give children ‘unconditional positive regard’, so that they recognise and are praised for positive behaviours from their very first day. Each class has a ‘proud cloud’ where children’s photos are added when they deserve special recognition. When everyone’s photo is on the board the class achieves a rainbow …. which means they have earned a class treat!
Lessons are designed to be fun and encourage children’s sense of curiosity and wonder. Learning takes place outside as well as in the classroom - including in a new outdoor ‘wild space’.
It all adds up to a recipe for success. As one parent said: “The staff are at the heart of why it is so amazing. They bring learning to life, so much so, that our son isn't even aware he's being taught, he is just having fun and learning a lot along the way.”
Award judges are currently meeting with all the shortlisted schools, so it’s fingers crossed for Eggbuckland until the winners are announced later in June.
Ros Owen, assistant headteacher and EYFS lead, is thrilled with the nomination. She said: 'This nomination highlights the incredible work of the nursery and foundation team at Eggbuckland Vale. Every single adult plays a significant part to the success of the provision.'