Curriculum
A common misconception is that the children are ‘only playing’ whilst in the Foundation Stage. However, the best Early Years Education is based on the understanding that whilst children are playing, they are learning. During the day there will be a mixture of adult initiated, child initiated and adult led activities as well as whole class, small group and individual activities. Formal Phonics, Maths and Topic sessions take place throughout the week.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is based on four themes and seven areas of learning. The four themes are The Unique Child, Positive Relationships, Enabling Environments and Learning and Development. The seven areas of learning are:
- Communication and Language Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Continuous/Enhanced Provision
Children in the EYFS need opportunities to play, explore, experiment and learn in both an indoor and outdoor environment. Whenever possible, we operate a free flow environment where children can choose whether to be indoors or outdoors and can move independently between both. Continuous Provision is planned carefully to provoke exploration and allow all children to practise and embed skills. Provision is enhanced based on the interests and needs of the children.
Characteristics of Effective Learning
The Characteristics of Effective Learning are a vital part of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. We believe it is important to reflect on the different ways that each unique child learns. A child’s individual learning characteristics will determine the way they respond to both teaching and learning taking place in the environment. The three characteristics of effective learning identified by the EYFS are:
- Playing and exploring – children investigate and experience things, and ‘have a go’
- Active learning – children concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties and enjoy achievements
- Creating and thinking critically – children have and develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and develop strategies for doing things.
Curiosity Approach
At Catshill First School and Nursery, our Early Years is inspired by the Curiosity Approach. We place awe, wonder and curiosity at the heart of our practice.