Caterpillars

Caterpillar Class follows a rich and engaging daily timetable designed to support a wide range of learning needs. Each morning begins with a welcome song, where children come together to say good morning using Makaton, sound buttons, or spoken language. We then sing about the days of the week and count how many children are present, encouraging early number recognition and routine awareness.

Our phonics sessions focus on the initial sounds s, a, t, p, i, n, following the Twinkl phonics programme. Communication and language development is embedded throughout the day, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. We also incorporate the Wellcomm programme and Attention Autism bucket time to support engagement and interaction.

Mathematics is taught through practical, sensory-based activities covering number, shape, space, and measure, with a focus on using and applying skills within number ranges appropriate to each child. Learning is further enriched through regular use of our outdoor area, soft play space, and the school hall, providing varied environments that support physical development and sensory exploration.

Lunchtime provides a valuable social experience for our children. We sit together to eat, encouraging eye contact, interaction, and shared communication. Support staff promote key life skills such as using a spoon, drinking from a cup, and opening food packets. This time also allows us to reinforce important daily routines, including hand washing and recognising personal belongings such as lunch boxes and drink bottles.

Caterpillar’s afternoon timetable covers subjects such as computing, Understanding of the world, Life skills, Physical development, Jigsaw, Expressive arts and personal development.

Each day, your child’s bag should contain their home–school communication book. This book is an important way for us to share updates about your child’s day, including any special “wow” moments. We encourage you to use it too, feel free to let us know how your child is doing at home or if there is any information you wish to share with us.

Your child will also have a reading book to enjoy with an adult. These books are designed for shared reading, focusing on looking at pictures and turning pages together. Alongside this, you’ll find a reading diary where you can record any reading you do at home. Please ensure both the reading book and diary stay in your child’s bag, as we read together in class every day.

Wednesday mornings are dedicated to physical development. Children will either visit Stourbridge Crystal Leisure Centre or take part in activities in our school’s soft play area. Caterpillars, Moles, and Badger classes access these facilities on a rota basis. At times, we also make use of the adventure playground or enjoy outdoor sessions with bikes and scooters. Please ensure your child comes to school dressed in comfortable clothing, wearing trainers and a coat, ready for active play and outdoor learning.