Our EYFS Curriculum Rationale

At Stoke Prior First School our youngest children follow the statutory framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).  The framework supports an integrated approach to early learning and care and outlines a set of principles and commitments to deliver quality Early Education and childcare experiences to all children.  The framework has seventeen areas of learning which can be seen in the table below.  The areas are split into Prime or Specific areas of development. 

The Prime areas begin to develop quickly in response to relationships and experiences, and run through and support learning in all other areas. The Prime areas continue to be fundamental throughout the EYFS.  The Specific areas include essential skills and knowledge. Once the foundations of the Prime areas have started developing the Specific areas will develop.

The ways in which the children engage with their peers, adults and their environment are known within the Early Years as “Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning” (CETL).  The CETL can be seen in the second table. 

The seventeen areas of learning are divided into stages of development.  It is crucial to recognise that children progress at their own rate and in their own way.  A child's environment at home and in school and their developing relationships with adults and their peers will both influence the rate at which they develop.  Each child and their family, community and culture, is unique and to be celebrated.

At Stoke Prior First School on-going formative assessment is at the heart of effective Early Years practice.  The children will have opportunities to develop within the areas of learning through two approaches.  Firstly teacher led activities and secondly child initiated.   

If a child is developmentally ready, they will reach the ELG - Early Learning Goal, for each of the seventeen areas of learning.  If you would like to look in more detail at the 'Development Matters' document, please use the link at the bottom of this page.

Throughout the day, children have time to play and are able to immerse themselves with things they are interested in.  Allowing time for play, enables children to build friendships, explore, take risks and challenge themselves.  They will develop many skills including perseverance and resilience.  Children have a right to play both indoors and outside during their time in the EYFS.  At Stoke Prior First School, our children are fortunate to have an inviting and exciting classroom, a large outside space with a variety of areas within it and a wonderful Forest School.  When an environment is stimulating and supported by responsive and knowledgeable adults, children will be learning as they play.

“Play is the work of the child”-Maria Montessori

•   * DfE Statutory Framework for The Early Years Foundation Stage

Please also see our sections for Areas of Learning and Development in the 'related' area.