At Hounslow Town, we are proud to offer a dedicated ‘Busy Learning Area’ (BLA)—a large, vibrant space that serves as an extension of the Year 1 classrooms. Children access the BLA throughout the week, engaging in rich, multi-sensory, first-hand learning experiences that make the curriculum more practical, creative, meaningful and fun.

The BLA plays a crucial role in supporting and extending children's learning. It is particularly beneficial for easing the transition from Reception to Year 1 as well as serving as an invaluable resource for pupils with SEND, those with limited or no English, and the growing number of new arrivals with little or no prior Early Years education.

Each week, children take part in a wide range of carefully planned, open-ended activities linked directly to the classroom learning. This strong connection reinforces key concepts and enables children to explore, consolidate, and deepen their understanding in an engaging, hands-on environment.

Learning in the BLA offers opportunities for exploration through structured play. These experiences help develop a broad range of skills, including:

• Language development
• Cooperation and social interaction
• Fine motor skills
• Creativity

The space is thoughtfully set out to cater to a diverse level of need. Children benefit from accessible, practical activities; allowing them to consolidate knowledge and build confidence. Challenge is offered through problem-solving tasks and targeted questioning. Underpinning all activities is a strong emphasis on language acquisition.

Throughout the school day, groups of up to twenty-five children; five from each Year 1 class, access this area. Mixing children from different classes allows greater social interactions, fostering not only language development but the opportunity to collaborate with peers from across the year group.

The Busy Learning Area is a dynamic and inclusive space that brings learning to life, ensuring all children have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their starting point.