Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Intent
At Arlecdon Primary School, our EYFS curriculum is designed to provide every child with the knowledge, skills and experiences they need to become confident, independent and enthusiastic learners. We recognise that children learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences, play, exploration and positive relationships. Our curriculum is firmly rooted in the principles of Development Matters and the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage, ensuring children develop across all seven areas of learning while building the foundations for future success.
We value each child as a unique individual and carefully build upon their starting points, interests, strengths and developmental needs. Learning opportunities are planned to foster curiosity, creativity, communication, resilience and a love of learning. Through exciting experiences, visitors, educational visits and outdoor learning, including our regular Tree-mendous Tuesday and Forest School sessions, children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them and their place within it.
Implementation
Our EYFS curriculum is delivered through a balance of carefully planned adult-led learning, purposeful play and child-initiated exploration. Practitioners use ongoing observation, assessment and professional judgement to respond to children’s interests and next steps, ensuring learning is ambitious, relevant and engaging. Planning is flexible and follows the principles of Development Matters, allowing children to revisit and deepen their learning over time.
Children learn through a rich range of experiences which support all areas of development. Opportunities are provided both indoors and outdoors, enabling children to investigate, problem-solve, communicate, collaborate and take appropriate risks in a safe environment. Carefully chosen themes, visitors and experiences enrich learning whilst supporting progression towards the National Curriculum. These include exploring seasonal changes, developing understanding of people and communities, learning about the natural world and engaging with real-life experiences through visits and visitors from the local community.
The Characteristics of Effective Learning are woven throughout the curriculum, encouraging children to:
- Play and explore
- Be active and motivated learners
- Create, think critically and solve problems independently
Strong partnerships with parents and carers ensure learning is shared and celebrated, supporting every child to achieve their full potential.
Impact
Children leave the EYFS at Arlecdon Primary School as happy, confident and capable learners who are ready for the next stage of their education. They develop strong communication and social skills, positive attitudes towards learning and increasing independence. Through high-quality interactions, carefully planned experiences and a language-rich environment, children build secure foundations in reading, writing and mathematics while developing a broad understanding of the world around them.
Our children demonstrate curiosity, resilience and creativity. They learn how to work collaboratively, manage their feelings, solve problems and persevere when challenges arise. Regular outdoor learning experiences help children develop confidence, physical skills and a respect for nature.
By the end of Reception, children have made strong progress from their starting points and are well prepared for a successful transition into Key Stage One, equipped with the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to continue their learning journey with confidence and enthusiasm.
