Amazing progress
We pour limitless time and energy into ensuring that our pupils at Manadon develop and succeed. Our teaching team work collaboratively to create a joined-up programme of learning – and their talent and passion help propel our children to become enthusiastic and ambitious learners.
An enriching journey
The primary school years are ones of adventure and discovery. We provide a wonderful and varied menu of opportunities for our children to experience. From clubs that involve sport, art and science to inspiring trips and activities organised by groups outside school, there’s so much to do.
Collaborating with parents
As a parent or carer, you are the most important person in your child’s world. We love to include you – to help support their learning and share in their journey. Plus, our Breakfast Club and After School Club provide a useful option to help you balance the demands of work, family and life.
A fantastic place to learn
With our engaging curriculum, skilled teaching teams and fantastic facilities, Manadon Vale empowers our pupils to flourish. This shows in the high levels of academic success children achieve at Manadon.
Find out moreAre there any specialist teachers or teaching assistants?
We have one HLTA in each phase, teaching assistant in every year group and individual music lessons are taught by peripatetic teachers.
How are pupils assessed and graded during the early years foundation stage?
Children are assessed at the beginning of the year through the Reception Baseline and are then assessed throughout the year as working at the expected standard or not. Parents would be made aware of concern areas and how the school is supporting their child to close the gap where possible.
How are pupils prepared for the transition to primary school?
We have a robust transition to primary programme – we have a parent and carer welcome to meeting in June before children start then we run two stay and play sessions in July.
In September, children spend first two weeks getting to know each other and staff before their classes are decided. Children are allocated classes after the first few weeks based on relationships they have built with other children and staff members in the unit.
How can Current Families communicate with their child's teacher?
They can speak to them at drop off in the morning, collection at home time, phone the school office to speak to them or email them directly.
How does the school ensure that pupils in the early years foundation stage are safe and well-cared for?
We ensure that all children are safe and well-cared for through good pupil to staff ratios and a safe and stimulating learning environment.
What is the Curriculum for the early years foundation stage?
What is the average class size?
30 pupils.
What is the early years foundation stage?
The early years foundation stage (EYFS) sets standards for the learning, development and care of your child from birth to 5 years old. At our school, we take children from 4 years old, we do not have a nursery attached to the school.
What is the pupil-to-teacher ratio?
1 teacher to 30 pupils with additional adults to support learning and pupils needs.
What is the school's approach to play-based learning?
All EYFS learning is play based, following the EYFS Framework.
What is the school's approach to promoting healthy eating and physical activity?
Healthy and happy in mind and body is one of our school values so we ensure that all children complete 2 hours of physical activity a week through a range of approaches. Plus, we teach this through our PHSE lessons and encourage parents and carers to pack healthy food in children’s lunch boxes.
What is the school's approach to promoting language and communication development?
We teach early reading through phonics (ELS) but we firmly believe that speaking comes first so we teach the pronunciation of sounds along with cued articulation (signs) to support the children’s understanding.
What is the school's approach to promoting pupils' emotional and social development in EYFS?
We teach PHSE through Jigsaw which supports their emotional and social learning.
What is the school's approach to supporting pupils with additional learning needs?
See the SEND page of the website for all information.
What is the typical school day for a pupil in the early years foundation stage?
School starts at 8:40am and children complete phonics and maths during morning learning time with continuous provision threaded throughout the entire day. The school day finishes at 3pm for our EYFFS children.
What support is available for pupils who are struggling?
We adapt learning in every lesson for children who require additional support and teachers would refer children to the SENDCo if they felt additional support would be beneficial for the child.