“Play is the highest form of research”.
– Albert Einstein
I am proud to be the Early Years Lead at Willow Farm Primary School and hold a degree in Early Years alongside the National Professional Qualification for Early Years Leadership (NPQEYL). I am dedicated to the Early Years Foundation Stage, as I believe it is a vital and formative time in every child’s life where strong foundations for learning, wellbeing, and curiosity are built.
At Willow Farm, our vision for Early Years is for every child to thrive, belong, and feel safe within a nurturing, joyful, and inspiring environment. We place children at the heart of everything we do, valuing their unique interests, voices, and experiences.
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum with a strong focus on the Prime Areas of Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development, alongside rich opportunities for literacy, mathematics, and understanding the world. We promote independence, creativity, and a love of learning through meaningful, purposeful experiences.
Learning is delivered through high-quality play, carefully planned environments, and responsive adult interactions. We embrace curiosity, exploration, and child-led learning, alongside thoughtful adult-guided teaching that supports each child’s individual development. Outdoor learning and real-life experiences are central to our approach.
Children leave our Early Years confident, resilient, and enthusiastic learners who are ready for the next stage of their education. They develop strong social skills, a positive sense of self, and a secure foundation for lifelong learning.
I feel incredibly privileged to lead such a special stage of education at Willow Farm and to work alongside a dedicated team who share the same commitment to giving every child the very best start in their learning journey.
Becky Blakey
EYFS Lead