Welcome to Helme C of E Academy
We are delighted that you have chosen Helme C of E Academy for your child’s education. Starting school is an important milestone for both children and families, and we look forward to meeting you and getting to know your child as they begin their learning journey with us. We value strong partnerships with parents and carers and believe that working together helps every child to thrive.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
In our Early Years Foundation Stage, children learn through a play-based approach that is carefully planned to support their development. Play allows children to explore, ask questions, practise new skills and build confidence in a happy and nurturing environment. Our curriculum covers all areas of early learning, helping children develop communication, physical skills, independence and positive relationships, while fostering a love of learning from the very start.
We will share further information about the Early Years curriculum through our Parent Information session in June.
Forest School
An exciting and unique part of our primary curriculum is the inclusion of a dedicated Forest School session every week for every child in school. These sessions give children the opportunity to learn outdoors in a natural environment, supporting confidence, teamwork, resilience and wellbeing. Through hands-on activities and exploration, Forest School helps children develop curiosity, problem-solving skills and a strong connection with the outdoor world. Children in Reception begin their Forest School journey in our extensive school garden, where they can learn to follow rules and respect boundaries before moving their outdoor learning into our wooded area.
Transition Days and Parent Meetings
Once your child has been offered a place at Helme Academy, you will receive a pack from us with details of our parent information meeting in June. This meeting will give you an opportunity to meet the members of staff that will be working with your child, and learn a little more about Helme and our Early Years and Forest School curriculum. During this meeting, we will also share information about our transition sessions for children, which include a Teddy Bear's Picnic and Family Forest School session during June and July, alongside home visits and nursery visits which give us a clear idea of how best we can support your little ones at the start of their school journey.
