Nursery World - High/Scope in action

In-house expertise on High/Scope has enabled Causeway Green Primary School to develop a child-initiated approach to learning in its reception classes. Now the curriculum content is negotiated with the children and planning is determined by the children's interests rather than rigidly set topics, exercises or worksheets.

Now the curriculum content is negotiated with the children and planning is determined by the children's interests rather than rigidly set topics, exercises or worksheets.

The change, says Foundation Stage co-ordinator Lesley Harris, has resulted in a fundamental shift in control. 'Whereas before we were being controlled by the curriculum, now adults and children share control.' To achieve this, the day is structured around High/Scope's Plan-Do-Review routine. Early in the day, the children are told of resources available (some permanent, some stemming from the children's interests) and adults' plans (for example, 'I'm playing in the shop'). They are then allowed to choose what they would like to do and where (the learning environment incorporates the corridors and outdoors).

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included