Early childhood is a time of unparalleled cognitive, physical, and social development. These formative years shape not only how a child does in school, but also their long-term happiness and wellbeing. Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets standards for the learning, development and care of children at birth to age five. Through guided and child-directed play, our youngest learners develop their independence, sense of responsibility, fine and gross motor skills, communication and social skills, emotional regulation, and more.
Early Years Foundation Stage integrates four guiding principles that shape learning:
As part of Early Years Foundation Stage, children play, explore, create, and think critically through activities shaped by seven Areas of Learning and Development. We use these inter-connected areas to promote children’s individual interests and unique learning needs.
The Prime Areas are crucial to igniting curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building the capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive. Learning is strengthened and applied in the Specific Areas. The activities, stories, and games through which learning takes place in each area are challenging, exciting, and fuel progress towards learning outcomes. Through a mix of child-initiated and adult-led experiences that are relevant to the children’s lives, we also encourage effective listening and positive behavior.
Communication & Language
Children experience a rich language environment and develop confidence and skills in expressing themselves while speaking and listening in a range of situations. We also spark interest in reading and writing. Children study French and Spanish as part of this area, learning greetings and introductions, and how to speak about colors, numbers, food, and transport. Children also explore the associated cultures.
Physical Development
Enjoying opportunities to be active and interactive, children develop coordination, control, and movement. They also learn basic principles of health and self-care, including the importance of physical activity and healthy food choices.
Personal, Social & Emotional Development
This area involves helping children develop a positive sense of themselves and others. They adopt social skills and learn about making relationships. We also learn how to manage feelings and demonstrate appropriate behavior. The overarching theme is self-confidence and self-awareness.
Literacy
Development here involves encouraging children to link sounds and letters, and to begin to read and write. Children have access to a wide range of reading materials, including books and poems.
Mathematics
This area provides children with chances to improve skills in counting and understanding and using numbers. They calculate simple addition and subtraction, and learn to describe shapes, spaces, and measures. This area supports children’s understanding in different situations by providing opportunities to explore, practice, learn, and talk.
Understanding the World
Children make sense of their physical world and community by observing and learning about people, places, technology, and the environment. Learning is based on first-hand experiences that involves making predictions and decisions, and taking part in discussions.
Expressive Arts & Design
Here children use their imagination and work with various media and materials. They share their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through art and music, take part in movement, dance, and role play, and explore design and technology. Through these activities, children learn to value their own ideas and those of others. This area particularly supports children’s curiosity and desire to play.
Assessment is the gathering and analysis of information about student performance. It identifies what children know, understand, can do, and feel at different stages in the learning process; this information guides teachers in instruction. Assessment is an ongoing and daily part of school life, and the formative comments children receive develop their understanding of the skills and knowledge required to be successful in each course.
At BISC South Loop, the aims and purpose of assessment are to:
Early Years Curriculum Guide - 2023-24
Early Years Curriculum Guide 24-25.pdf (1 MB)
A Nord Anglia education means your child will have the knowledge, confidence and creativity to excel at whatever they choose to do or be in life.
