Every day in Ruby Class is thoughtfully structured to give our Nursery and Reception children security, joy, and the very best start to their learning journey. A familiar routine helps them feel settled, while the variety of activities ensures that each day is filled with discovery and excitement.

To support this, we use a visual timetable that helps children understand the flow of the day and take ownership of their learning. Some cards appear every day, giving a sense of comfort and predictability, while others are added for special activities so that no two days look quite the same. This combination of consistency and variety helps children feel confident and secure, while keeping their days exciting and fresh.

The images below offer a glimpse into the rhythm of our Ruby Class days.

Morning

Each morning begins with calm and purpose. Children are warmly welcomed by familiar adults and supported to check the visual timetable, helping them feel confident and ready for the day ahead. Together we sing our good morning songs, look at the calendar, and enjoy movement activities that prepare body and mind for learning.

Phonics comes next, following the Read Write Inc. programme. Children are grouped to ensure focused, high-quality teaching that builds strong early reading skills. Afterwards, they enjoy a rich period of child-led learning, with carefully planned indoor and outdoor areas offering a balance of open-ended play and purposeful activities linked to our class topics. We also make use of the Rainbow Room for small group reading in a calm, supportive space.

Later in the morning, children take part in a literacy session that develops communication, language and writing skills. The morning ends with collective worship, before we prepare for lunch with friends.

Lunchtime

At St John’s, school lunches are provided by Stir Food, offering a varied and nutritious menu. Each morning, children choose their lunch with staff support, and families can view the menu on our school website to decide together at home.

Mealtimes are treated as an important part of the day. Staff sit alongside the children, modelling calm conversation, good manners and respectful table habits. Children are supported to eat with increasing independence, including practising cutlery skills at our snack table. Trying new foods is encouraged, and the colourful salad bar provides an opportunity to explore healthy choices. Milk and water are available every day.

Lunchtime is not just about eating; it is also about connection, social growth and shared joy.

Afternoon

The afternoon begins with a maths session, where children explore number, pattern, shape and measure through hands-on activities. These sessions foster mathematical thinking, problem-solving and confidence.

Children then enjoy more opportunities for purposeful play and exploration in a calm, creative environment. We also make full use of our wider school setting:

• Visiting the library for quiet reading and reflection

• Tending to Catriona’s Garden

• Taking part in physical play in the hall or in the playground

• Engaging in specialist PE and music sessions each week

These afternoons are designed to inspire. They give children the space to wonder, to investigate, and to express themselves fully.

A Balanced Day

In Ruby Class, the daily routine blends structure with freedom. Children benefit from focused sessions in phonics, literacy and maths, but also from long stretches of child-initiated play and exploration. This balance helps them develop independence, curiosity, and confidence while feeling happy and secure.