Foundation Phase

The Foundation Phase was implemented on August 2008 for 3-5 year olds, August 2009 for 5-6 year olds, and August 2010 for 6-7 year olds. The Foundation Phase made learning for children become much more practical and creative. This means that the children will learn more from doing, which is called kinesthetic learning.
Much of the learning is done through play and through this the children will experiment, take risks, work individually or in groups with other students and solve problems. All of this is to ensure that the child can work on thier intellectual, emotional, physical and personal well being. Also thier creative and observational skills, as well as developing self worth and self esteem which is a very important factor in the Foundation Phase

This is a photo of a typical Foundation Phase classroom.

This photo shows us what some of the activities in the Foundation Phase could be. We can see an electronic white board, children can use any number of different programs which will help with thier learning. The learning mat on the floor tells us that children will be sitting down while they are learning which is a much more relaxed atmosphere for them. There are also toys, books and stationary which the children can use to further thier own learning.

The Foundation Phase ensures that children who are ahead of thier peers will have something to do which will be stimulating for them and progress thier learning while those students who are behind, will not be singled out or pushed forward. These pupils will also be given something suitable for thier development. The outdoor environment is important to the Foundation Phase as it promotes the childrens curiosity to explore and learn from first hand experience.
This learning has a balance between child initiated activities and activities which are directed by a teacher.

The Foundation Phase plans to reduce social and environmental barriers to inclusion. For example A student who is disabled must be able to access the school via his/her wheelchair. If a school has no disabled access and a disabled student will be attending the school, then they need to make sure that the barriers are removed to make the school inclusive. The school can get advice regarding appropriate equipment, resources and activities to make sure that all the students are fully included.

The schools need to ensure that lesson plans and material are suitable for the childrens age, experience and understanding. The material should also be relevant and motivating for the pupils.
The Foundation Phase develops childrens communication skills through reading, writing and oracy. There are also other communication skills which include gesture, mime, signing and expression through art and music. These communication skills usually develop after reading writing and oracy.

There is much more information on the Foundation Phase which can be found on the Welsh Assembly Government website here.