Head of Early Years - Mrs Kate Woodward

My teaching career began when I graduated in 1999 from Northampton University. I initially taught in Key Stage 2 and moved down year groups until I found myself happiest teaching the youngest children. I taught in Australia for 4 years working in Kindergarten, preschool and prep year groups. When I returned to the UK, I have specialised in Early Years Reception teaching and have been Head of EYFS here at Buckden Primary Academy since 2010.

I have regularly chosen to return to study and completed an Advanced Teaching degree whilst in Australia and became a Chartered Teacher in the pilot year of this scheme in 2019. To achieve this qualification, I had to be very reflective about my practice in the Reception classroom. I carried out my own action research project into adult led versus child initiated learning. I am now also recognised as a lead teacher for EYFS and support other teachers in the Eastern Region and have also mentored teachers in the Chartered Colleges Accelerate program.

What I really love about teaching the youngest of our children at Buckden, is how exciting it is to watch the children transition from the apprehensive, excitable pre-schoolers to fully fledged readers, writers, communicators, mathematicians, artists and scientists whilst still ensuring the focus is upon them having a wonderful time while they are doing all this learning. Our Skills Builder, Christian Values, Rights Respecting Curriculum and Global Goals curriculum combine to provide a curriculum I am very proud of as I know we are helping to secure our children exceptional futures in the workplace and our communities.

Our Reception team spend a lot of time getting our transitions in Reception spot on for the children. Establishing strong relationships with our feeder settings and providing an extensive schedule to assure our new children and parents are well supported throughout their Reception year.

Above all, what I love most about our young learners is the giggles they provide us every day. They are simply inspirational and make my day so unexpected and so much fun. The smiles, play and moments of ‘Wow’ make it my perfect job.