Learning and development

The Early Years Foundation Stage

The EYFS sets the standards that early years providers must meet so children learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe.

A strong foundation

Helping every child thrive

We implement the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It promotes teaching and learning that supports children’s school readiness and gives them a broad range of knowledge and skills as the foundation for future progress through school and life.

The EYFS is about recognising every child as an individual and giving them the relationships, environment and experiences they need to flourish.

The EYFS seeks to provide:

  • Quality and consistency, so every child makes good progress and no child gets left behind.
  • A secure foundation through planning, assessment and regular review of each child’s learning and development.
  • Partnership working between practitioners and parents or carers.
  • Equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice, ensuring every child is included and supported.

Four guiding principles

How children learn and develop

A unique child

Every child is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.

Positive relationships

Children learn to be strong and independent through warm, secure and supportive relationships.

Enabling environments

Adults respond to individual interests and needs, supporting learning over time in partnership with families.

Learning and development

Children develop and learn at different rates. The framework covers all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Children's hands exploring a sensory play activity

Seven areas of learning

Connected experiences and skills

All areas of learning and development are important and interconnected. Three prime areas build the foundation for curiosity, relationships and thriving:

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

These are strengthened and applied through four specific areas:

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