Our Early Years Foundation Stage gives children aged 3–5 a play-based, nurturing start to learning. Here, Laura Hatcher — Head of EYFS and NPQH-qualified school leader — explains our approach, philosophy, and what families can expect. Meet Laura Hatcher, Head of Early Years 1. Can you tell us about your educational background and professional journey in Early Years education? I have always been passionate about education and child development. My own education was based in the United Kingdom and I was very fortunate to attend one of the best universities in the world: The University of Warwick and during this time I did lots of volunteer work in local primary schools. I quickly discovered how rewarding it is to support children's first experiences of learning. Over the years, I have continued to develop professionally through leadership roles, curriculum development and whole-school improvement, while remaining committed to ensuring every child receives the very best start to their education. In 2022 I completed the NPQH (National Professional Qualification for Headship). I believe in being a lifelong learner myself and regularly engage with current educational research and professional development to continually refine my practice. 2. How many years of experience do you have working in Early Years, and what leadership roles have you held? The first job I secured after my PGCE was in the Early Years and I thoroughly enjoyed working with the children through a play-based curriculum. In the years to follow, I spent time teaching children in older year groups, particularly Year 6. This breadth of experience has equipped me with a very secure understanding of the whole Early Years and Primary spectrum and how children learn. 3. What inspired you to pursue a career in Early Years education? The Early Years are such a unique and important stage of a child's life. I have always been fascinated by how children learn through play, exploration and relationships. Being able to nurture curiosity, confidence and independence from such an early age is incredibly rewarding, and knowing that these experiences can have a lifelong impact continues to inspire me every day. Our Early Years Educational Philosophy 4. What is your philosophy when it comes to Early Years learning and development? I believe children learn best when they feel safe, valued and inspired. My philosophy is centred on creating meaningful learning experiences through play, exploration and high-quality interactions. Children should be encouraged to ask questions, solve problems and develop independence, while adults carefully scaffold learning through purposeful teaching. Every child develops at their own pace, and it is our role to recognise and celebrate those individual journeys. 5. What do you believe are the most important foundations children should develop during their early years? Alongside early literacy and numeracy, I believe the most important foundations are communication and language, emotional wellbeing, resilience, confidence, curiosity and positive relationships. These skills underpin all future learning and help children become capable, independent learners who enjoy coming to school. 6. How do you foster a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for young children? Building positive relationships is at the heart of everything I do. I believe children learn best when they feel secure and understood. I strive to create an environment where every child feels they belong, where diversity is celebrated and where learning is exciting, purposeful and accessible for everyone. Through carefully planned continuous provision, engaging experiences and responsive teaching, children are encouraged to explore, investigate and develop confidence in themselves as learners. Inside the EYFS department at Reach British School 7. What excites you most about joining our school community as Head of Early Years? I am excited to become part of a multicultural community that values children's wellbeing and academic development equally. I look forward to working alongside talented colleagues, building strong relationships with families and creating an inspiring Early Years environment where children develop a lifelong love of learning. 8. What are your priorities and goals for the Early Years department this academic year? My priorities are to ensure consistently high-quality teaching, develop a rich and engaging curriculum, strengthen children's communication and language, and continue building strong partnerships with parents. I also want to support staff through coaching and professional development, ensuring that we continue to reflect, innovate and provide the very best experiences for every child. 9. How do you work in partnership with parents to support children's learning and wellbeing? Parents are a child's first and most important educators. I believe open communication, mutual trust and shared goals are essential. I enjoy creating opportunities for parents to understand how their children learn, celebrating achievements together and ensuring families feel informed, listened to and actively involved throughout their child's Early Years journey. Getting to know Laura 10. What do you enjoy most about working with young children? I love their enthusiasm, honesty and endless curiosity. Every day is different, and there is something incredibly special about seeing a child's confidence grow as they master a new skill or discover something for the first time. Their excitement for learning is infectious and reminds us to appreciate the small moments. 11. What is one achievement in your career that you are particularly proud of? Every year in my career there has always been something to feel proud of. Whether that is putting on a successful end of year show or achieving above the national average examination results with the classes I have taught. My job is very fulfilling and I enjoy so many aspects of it. 12. Personal interest that parents and students might enjoy knowing about you? As a family and a mum of two boys, we love travelling, camping, cooking, cycling and watching anything live whether it is sports, a music event or a live show. A message to our Reach British School families 13. What message would you like to share with our parents and families as we begin the new academic year together? Starting school is an exciting milestone, and I want every family to know that we are here to support both children and parents every step of the way. By working together, we can create a positive, happy and successful start to your child's educational journey. We look forward to celebrating every achievement, big or small, and helping each child develop confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of learning. 14. What are you most looking forward to in your role at our school? I am most looking forward to getting to know the children and their families, building a strong Early Years team and creating memorable learning experiences that inspire curiosity and joy. It is a privilege to be part of such an important stage in children's lives, and I am excited to watch them grow in confidence, independence and happiness throughout the year.
