EYFS Curriculum

EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE

When children first come in to school they are following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) programme of study - for children up to 5 years old (and beyond where relevant).
The EYFS has four guiding principles:

• Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-      assured

• Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships

• Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs and there is a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and/or carers

• Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. The framework covers the education and care of all children in early years provision, including children with special educational needs and disabilities

There are seven areas of learning and development that shape learning in the early years. All areas of learning and development are important and inter-connected. Three areas are particularly crucial for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive.

These three areas, the prime areas, are:

• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development

The four specific areas in addition to these are:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the world
• Expressive arts and design

Each area of learning and development is implemented through planned, purposeful play and through a mix of adult-led and child-initiated activity. Throughout this time the progress of each child is continually assessed and activities planned to meet their future needs. We aim to plan ‘just beyond the fingertips of each child.’

Throughout their time in the Foundation Stage, you and your child’s teacher will share information about their progress at school and at home. At the end of the year you will receive a written report with details of their achievements and highlighting the next steps in their learning.