Practices

Once upon a time...it is time for our story
eTwinning
Institutions involved:
Thematic Field: ECEC
Agar Children’s Centre, London (United Kingdom), Przedszkole Mieiskie nr 13, Olsztyn
(Poland)
Key words: Curriculum, Staff competences, parental involvement
Description:
The project consisted of six story times (three of them were classic and well known,
like Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella) and was aimed at children within the Early
Years Foundation Stage (3 to 5 years), inclusive of children with Speech &
Learning difficulties and children with English as an Additional Language. The
objectives of the project were to exchange story-telling methods between
teachers, to become familiar with different methods and techniques used to tell
stories, to develop language learning with the children and to develop teachers' IT
skills. During the sessions teachers incorporated new and different techniques to
make story time as captivating as possible for the children.
The project attempted to incorporate all areas of development such as
communication, language, creativity, numeracy, physical activities and social
skills. The children developed a real interest and enjoyment in the books and learned
to share and interact with each other through participation in the various activities
relating to the stories. Learning was also evident on a deeper level, whereby children
collaborated and engaged in a range of activities, having been given different roles
within a group setting, using various ICT tools and fun activities, which appealed to
different senses. To further support this, the project gave way to different learning
styles, within different physical contexts, involving peers, teachers and parents.
This ultimately gave children the opportunity to engage with Polish and English culture
on many different levels.
The most outstanding result was the progress the children made in their
communication development. From analysis at the end of project almost all of the
children (including children with speech and learning difficulties and English as an
additional language) were achieving above expectations in this area.
Award:
The project received the UK National eTwinning award for Best newcomer in 2012.
Duration:
3 months in 2011
Webpage:
http://new-twinspace.etwinning.net/web/p51376
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