Early Years Foundation Stage

Children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) are split across two Reception classes of no more than 23 children. Their timetable is mainly play-based with all children being able to access a wide variety of independent and adult-led activities. Also, they tend to have either three or four carpet sessions a day where they learn as a class or in smaller groups. Phonics and Maths are taught daily with the other sessions being based on other aspects of the EYFS curriculum (see below).From November onwards, children also have guided reading sessions with key staff.

The EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) curriculum is a set of learning and development standards in England for children from birth to five years old, which includes a mandatory curriculum for early years settings like nurseries and childminders. It is guided by the statutory framework and is structured around seven areas of learning: three prime areas (communication and language, physical development, personal, social and emotional development) and four specific areas (literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design).   

The Seven Areas of Learning

• Prime Areas: 

  These are the foundational areas for all other learning. 
  • Communication and Language: Listening, attention, understanding, and speaking. 
  • Physical Development: Gross motor and fine motor skills, movement, and self-care. 
  • Personal, Social and Emotional Development: Self-regulation, managing feelings, building relationships, and developing a sense of self. 

• Specific Areas: 

  These areas are developed once the prime areas are in place. 
  • Mathematics: Numbers, shapes, space, and problem-solving. 
  • Understanding the World: Learning about people, places, the environment, and technology. 
  • Expressive Arts and Design: Creating with different materials, imaginative play, and artistic expression. 
  • Literacy: Reading, writing, and comprehension. 

 Additional Documents:

Edward Feild EYFS Curriculum Map