Welcome to Foundation Stage

Come and look at the fantastic learning we have been doing!

Our Intent

Our aim in Foundation Stage is to ensure that the children are offered an environment to grow and explore which is nurturing, constructive and friendly. Our Foundation Stage encourages all learners to seek, challenge and make mistakes. We aim to prepare the children for their journey through school by equipping them with academic knowledge as well as practical skills to enable them to succeed. In Foundation Stage we encourage children to be kind, to be independent and to try their best. Our aim is for children to learn through play, to be inquisitive about the world around them and to grow to be competent and resilient learners. 

Meet Our Team

Mrs H Pitt- EYFS & KS1 Team Leader

I have been a teacher since 2006 after completing a PGCE at Reading University. I have always wanted to be a teacher from a very young age and love inspiring children in their learning and watching them grow. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and going to football matches to cheer on my favourite team. I also have quite a fascination with sharks! 

Mrs L Davies- Nursery Teacher

I have been a teacher since 2013 after studying Primary Education for 3 years at Oxford Brookes. I became a teacher because I wanted to give children the experience of a fabulous teacher, the same as I had when I was a child. I want to give children the love and support they need to enjoy school and thrive in their learning. The curiosity of a child’s mind and the way in which they problem solve and questions is phenomenal to watch and see grow and develop. Their journey is a privilege to be a part of.

Mrs S Belcher- Reception Teacher

Being part of a child’s learning journey and watching their curiosity and confidence flourish is a huge privilege. It reminds me how lucky I am to have one of the best jobs in the world! I completed my primary teaching degree in 2008 and I have worked at Manor Primary School for over 10 years. I am a  Maths specialist teacher and also lead Design and Technology across the school. When I am not teaching, I love to spend time with my family, travelling and exploring new places. I also love taking on new challenges such as skydiving, white water rafting and skiing.

Miss L Coughlin- Reception Teacher

I've been a teacher for over 20 years and worked at a range of schools across Reading. I've always focused on FS and KS1 and this is my second return to Manor Primary School as I love working here. I enjoy watching a child delight in their play and the Foundation Stage environment means I can capitalise on children’s moments of curiosity and enthusiasm to teach them exactly what they need. My spare time is usually spent catching up with family and friends and procrastinating about my to do list. For example, I have great aspirations every school holiday that I’m going to turn into a gardener but if I’m honest, I barely get on top of weeding. Maybe next school break!

Miss K Beasley- Early Years Practitioner

I have worked with children for 15 years, I gained my NVQ level 2 and 3 in Childcare and Education whilst doing a modern apprenticeship in 2006.  I started working at Manor in 2009 as an Early Years Practitioner based in Foundation Stage. My favourite part of the job is seeing how much the children change and progress throughout the year and that no 2 days are ever the same! In my spare time, I ferry my boys to football training and matches (I’m the loudest and proudest parent on the sideline).

Miss K Sturgess- Early Years Practitioner

I have been at Manor Primary for 27 years working within all key stages. I began my journey as a mum volunteering and then progressed in my career as a qualified Teaching Assistant, later developing to an Early Years Practitioner. Whilst volunteering I realised that every child is an individual in their own right and that this means the learning journey they take enables them to flourish. It is a pleasure and a privilege to be a part of their learning journey.

Miss H Syrad- SEN Teaching Assistant

I have worked at Manor since January 2009, following my two sons' attendance here. I have my NVQ3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning, as well as a Level 4, Certificate of Higher Education in Social Sciences from the Open University. I have additional training in many aspects of SEND, including supporting children with speech, language and communication needs, sensory issues, and Autistic conditions. I gained my Level 1 Makaton this year and will do Level 2 next term. I worked in the Cognitive and Learning Resource for 12 years.  I am a trained, experienced ELSA and one of the Canine Therapy handlers-Tuesday's are my favourite day! I feel very privileged to be part of not only children's learning journey, but also their social and emotional growth. When I am not at school I can be found on my rather large allotment growing more flowers than vegetables! 

Miss N Frost- 1:1 Support Assistant

My journey started at Manor volunteering as a Support Assistant in Year 3 and helping on various trips and outings. I then became a Lunchtime Assistant and have continued to grow at Manor ever since. It is a privilege to work at Manor and to see the children's learning journey, and to watch them grow and develop. In my own time I enjoy being a Mum to two boys, and spending quality time with my family and supporting my son's own football journey.

Miss D Giles- Nursery Support Assistant

I started my Childcare Qualification in 2022 and have since then worked in multiple settings gaining the knowledge and understanding needed to give the children I work with the best education I can. I enjoy watching the children develop and grow as they express themselves as their own individual and as their confidence grows. When I am not working I am exploring with my younger brothers and sisters as well as my nieces and nephews.