St Michael's Continuous Provision

Research from the The LEGO Foundation and the World Economic Forum highlights that success will be shaped not just by what children know, but by skills like creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, adaptability and emotional intelligence.
These “future-ready” skills are nurtured through play, exploration and child-led learning every day in school.

Give children time and they'll choose to look at books!!!

Why is continuous provision in KS1 so important?

Continuous Provision gives children the freedom to explore, create, problem-solve and learn through play every day. It builds independence, confidence, curiosity and key lifelong skills — all while making learning meaningful and engaging. When children lead their learning, amazing things happen!

A great time in the sunshine - washing and riding motorbikes. Great physical development, conversation and fun!

Our new history unit in year 2 all about the monarchy has really captured the childrens' imaginations! So much learning in play.

Do you feel that “back to school” dread creeping in… or are you secretly (or not so secretly!) excited to get back into a routine? ✨

For us, the “back to school” always feels genuinely exciting — and a big part of that is knowing our children are stepping into an environment where they can truly thrive.

One of the things that makes such a difference is that our children are encouraged to engage in activities that are completely age-appropriate throughout the day. They’re not expected to sit still at tables and chairs for hours on end, waiting for others to finish or working their way through worksheet after worksheet. Instead, their days are filled with meaningful, hands-on experiences that support how young children actually learn best.

They are moving their bodies, building strength and coordination through play.
They are communicating their ideas, feelings and discoveries with confidence.
They are negotiating with their friends, learning how to share, take turns and solve problems together.

They are exploring, questioning, imagining and creating.
They are developing independence by making choices and taking ownership of their learning.
They are building resilience as they try, fail, adapt and try again.

They are learning through curiosity — not pressure.
They are discovering the world around them in ways that feel natural, joyful, and engaging.
They are forming friendships, learning empathy, and understanding how to be part of a community.

And most importantly… they are being children.

So as the new term begins, instead of dread, we feel excitement — because we know our children are not just “going back to school,” they are stepping into a space where they are supported, inspired, and free to grow into confident, capable little humans. 💛

Happy “back to school” to everyone.

Time is important........

Time to get deeply involved.
Time to revisit ideas.
Time to make mistakes and try again.

Learning isn’t a race—it’s a process.

And play gives children the time they need.

What does high-quality play look like through KS1?

✔️ Open-ended resources
✔️ Time to explore
✔️ Skilled adults who observe, not interrupt
✔️ Meaningful conversations that extend thinking

We’re looking for a Class Teacher to join our lovely school in Aldbourne, North Wiltshire

If you’re passionate about great teaching and want to be part of a supportive, collaborative team, we’d love to hear from you. We’re proud of our focus on high-quality practice, outdoor learning (including Forest School and OPAL), and a coaching culture where everyone is supported to grow. As you probably know we also value play-based learning right through to the end of Year 2!!

The role could be in EYFS, KS1 or KS2, depending on your experience.

Find out more on our website or get in touch with the office on 01672 540434 or [email protected] for an application pack.

A joyful sight when new sand is delivered! Lots of physical development in action helping our caretaker get the sand in place and then wonderful collaboration and creativity with tunnels, slopes, mountains and so much more…