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EYFS

The Early Years Foundation Stage

Nursery and Reception classes follow the Early Years Curriculum known as the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The curriculum tracks children's progress from birth until 5 years   The EYFS has 7 Areas of Learning and Development which include 3 Prime areas and 4 Specific areas.

Prime Areas of Learning

Communication and  Language Development Personal Social and Emotional Development Physical Development
  • Listening, Attention and Understanding
  • Speaking
  • Self-regulation
  • Managing self
  • Building relationships  
  • Gross motor skills
  • Fine motor skills

Specific Areas of Learning

Literacy Mathematics Understanding of the world Expressive Arts and Design
  • Comprehension
  • Word reading
  • Writing
  • Number
  • Numerical patterns
  • Past and present
  • People, culture and communities
  • The natural world
  • Creating with materials
  • Being imaginative and expressive

The Prime Areas of Learning support a child’s development of identity and empathy, enabling them to form positive relationships, communicate effectively and become effective members of society.

The Prime Areas of Learning are the fundamental building blocks to a child’s development and learning, without a strong foundation in these areas it can make it more challenging for children to further their development in the Specific Areas of Learning. Should it be identified that a child is showing a development delay in the prime areas then additional support maybe needed from outside professionals such as Speech and Language or Occupational Therapy.

All areas of learning in the EYFS are delivered through play based activities using a wide range of resources and opportunities. These are planned using the children’s interests and the Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning.

Characteristics of effective teaching and learning

Playing and Exploring Active Learning Creating and thinking critically 
  • Engagement
  • Motivation
  • Thinking

What to expect in the EYFS - a guide for parents and carers