The power of active learning
At Bridgewater, we are passionate about providing enriching and engaging learning opportunities that lay strong foundations for future success. Our Early Years curriculum is designed to develop core skills through active learning, encouraging curiosity, creativity and confidence in every child. Through structured yet playful activities, children enhance their fine motor skills, literacy, numeracy and problem-solving abilities – all while developing a love for learning.
Each week, our Reception Class takes part in ‘Drawing Club’, an innovative approach that brings stories to life through art and writing. Based on a book they have read that week, children engage in drawing activities that not only refine their fine motor skills, but also strengthen their early writing abilities. Using sound mats for support, they practise forming letters, writing words phonetically and constructing simple captions or short sentences. This process not only nurtures confidence in phonics, but enhances vocabulary and allows our young learners to experiment with storytelling – key components in developing literacy.
Mathematics in Early Years is brought to life through active and engaging challenges. Recently, our Reception children have been developing their hand-eye coordination by participating in practical maths activities. One such task involved throwing five beanbags between two hoops, then using their subitising skills to quickly identify the number in each hoop before mentally calculating the total. By repeating this challenge, they explored number composition and discovered multiple ways to make five – a fundamental concept in mathematical reasoning.
Building on this, the children were then challenged to distribute ten beanbags across two to four hoops. This hands-on activity enabled them to physically see that a whole number can be created in different ways, deepening their understanding of part-whole relationships. Such experiences nurture a strong mathematical foundation, formulating key skills that underpin learning across all areas of the curriculum.
By embedding active learning in everyday activities, we provide children with opportunities to develop essential skills in a meaningful and enjoyable way. Whether through storytelling, drawing, or hands-on mathematical exploration, pupils grow in confidence, independence and curiosity – ensuring they are well-prepared for the next stages of their educational journey.
