Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
At Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework, which sets the standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years of age. Parents and carers can access the framework here: EYFS Framework.
We recognise that every child is unique. When children join our Reception class, we take time to get to know them as individuals, identifying their interests, strengths and starting points. This enables us to plan engaging, purposeful learning experiences that meet their needs and help them flourish. Ongoing observation, assessment and responsive planning are an important part of the EYFS and help us support every child in making excellent progress.
The EYFS Curriculum
The EYFS curriculum is organised into seven areas of learning and development. These areas are interconnected and work together to support children's overall growth and readiness for future learning.
Prime Areas
The three Prime Areas provide the foundations for children's learning and development. They are particularly important in helping children build relationships, develop confidence and become effective learners.
These areas are:
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Specific Areas
The Specific Areas build upon and strengthen the Prime Areas, giving children opportunities to apply and extend their learning.
These areas are:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
How Children Learn
Children in Reception learn through a balance of child-initiated play, carefully planned adult-led activities and meaningful first-hand experiences. The EYFS recognises that young children learn most effectively when they are actively engaged, curious and motivated.
Learning is underpinned by the Characteristics of Effective Learning, which encourage children to:
- Play and Explore – investigating, discovering and having a go.
- Be Active Learners – concentrating, persevering and enjoying achievement.
- Create and Think Critically – developing ideas, solving problems and making connections.
We place a strong emphasis on developing the social skills, independence and resilience that children need both now and in the future. Through daily routines and learning experiences, children learn important skills such as sharing, cooperation, turn-taking, communication and self-confidence.
A Rich Learning Environment
Throughout the day, children participate in a wide variety of activities that cover all areas of the EYFS curriculum. Learning may take place:
- Independently
- With a partner
- In small groups
- As part of whole-class learning
We believe that children learn best through active engagement with their environment. Therefore, our curriculum is delivered through both indoor and outdoor learning opportunities, enabling children to explore, investigate, create and develop their understanding in a range of stimulating contexts.
Working in Partnership
We value the important partnership between home and school and believe that children achieve their best when parents and staff work together. We encourage regular communication with families and celebrate children's achievements both in school and at home.
At Our Lady of the Rosary, we strive to provide a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment where every child feels safe, valued and excited to learn, laying strong foundations for a lifelong love of learning.