Cortina my older two have been through reception recently, DS is now YR3, DD YR1, and when they were in reception is was very play based, more so for DD's year though.
Childrens choice of activity was a priority, although obviously there were restrictions in practical terms.
They did learn to read and write too though.
I found that a lot of activities were based round the phionics, say they were doing "s" looking for things beginning eityh that letter, listening for it in words or songs, trying to write the letter, colouring or painting it.
They have a workshop that is shared with YR1, for messy play and crafts and work, plus they still have access to the nursery garden so still mic with the nursery children.
This is at a highly academic primary school, so it's definetly positive.