We are very fortunate in Wales to have the Foundation Phase. It is the curriculum that all children follow from Nursery to Year 2. Experts from across Wales scoured the world for the best Early Years practice, including New Zealand, Scandinavia and Italy. The Foundation Phase is built upon experiential learning -  activities and challenges that are set in real life situations so that all children can see the value of learning.

There are seven areas of learning in the Foundation Phase:

Personal and Social Development - this is at the 'core' of the Foundation Phase. it is where children learn collaboratively - to share ideas and materials, to pool their own experiences and to tackle various activities together.

Language, Literacy and Communication - this permeates the whole of the curriculum and it is vital that children's literacy skills are developed on a daily basis

Mathematical Development - children (and adults) cannot go through their lives without using their numeracy skills. The idea here is to get them to focus on using and applying taught skills to solve real life problems.

Knowledge and Understanding of the World -  this area of learning looks at the world around us and tries to make sense of it. The children begin to develop research skills to look at scientific, historical and geographical aspects that affect their lives

Creative Development - children are naturally creative and this aspect of learning harnesses all aspects of creativity. From Art and Craft to pottery to the performing Arts, children have great fun enjoying the set activities and lessons

Physical Development - we are all aware of our obligations to ensure that our children live a healthy lifestyle. As well as physical activities and healthy eating, this area also focuses on aspects of their physical development, eg cutting paper with scissors and developing their hand-eye co-ordination.

Bi-lingualism and the Welsh Dimension - what is it that makes learning in a school in Wales so special? It is the language, our culture and our history. When you walk into your child's classroom ask yourself the question, ' How do I know that I am in a classroom in Wales?'