Early Years

"Because our children love to learn through exploratory play, we tailor our environment to foster opportunities for exploration of the world around them so they can embed their skills"

At Studlands Rise both classes follow the educational programs as outlined in the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory framework 2021. The EYFS framework includes 7 areas of learning and development, all of which are seen as important and interconnected. The 3 prime areas that underpin all learning are Communication and Language, Personal, Social and Emotional Development and Physical Development. There are 4 specific areas which develop essential skills and knowledge for children to participate successfully in society; Literacy, Maths, Understanding the World, Expressive Art and Design. The EYFS also includes Characteristics of Effective Learning (CoEL) and the Nursery and Reception teachers plan with these in mind to ensure that children develop within the learning environment. Through the CoEL the teachers reflect on the different ways that children learn, and then reflect these in their practice. A child’s individual learning characteristic will determine the way they respond to both the teaching and learning taking place in the environment.  Three characteristics of effective teaching and 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.

Intent

At Studlands Rise First School the EYFS curriculum is designed to encourage independent, inquisitive and happy learners. Every child is recognised as a unique individual and we acknowledge and promote children’s interests to provide them with the opportunities to follow their imagination and creativity. We strive to support children in investigating and developing their skills, fostering a love of learning.

Implementation

Our curriculum follows the Early Years educational programme and statutory framework, working towards our own Curriculum Goals. We support children’s characteristics of effective learning, playing and exploring, being active and thinking critically and creatively.

Pupils learn through child initiated and adult directed teaching and challenges. Children are provided with plenty of time to engage in exploration throughout the variety of experiences which is carefully planned to engage and challenge them in the indoor and outside provision.

We use Tapestry to collect children’s learning through observations and the recording of wow moments. Tapestry enables parents to engage regularly with children about their learning and contribute to our knowledge of the child we have in school. By the end of the rec year we provide opportunities for children to increase their independence in recording their work as appropriate, to help support them in preparation for year one.

The team work tirelessly to ensure that children are surrounded by kind caring and happy environment which helps them develop the same skills in their journey through school. It is a positive place to be where resilience, perseverance and successes are celebrated and every child feels valued and respected.