The provision for children's development and learning is guided by The Early Years Foundation Stage (DCFS 2007). From September 2008 the Early Years Foundation Stage became law. This brings together Birth to Three Matters and the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage. Our provision reflects the four key themes and 16 commitments of the Early Years Foundation Stage.
The EYFS builds upon the good practice included in previous frameworks, but for the first time explicitly recognises and celebrates a more holistic view of the child. The EYFS comprises four themes that express four important principles which underpin effective practice in the care, development and learning of young children.
| Theme |
Principles |
| A Unique Child |
Child Development: Skilful communicator, competent learner.
Inclusive Practice: Equality and diversity, children’s entitlements, early support.
Keeping Safe: Being safe and protected, discovering boundaries, making choices.
Health and Well-being: Growth and developing, physical and emotional wellbeing. |
| Positive Relationships |
Respecting Each Other: Understanding feelings, friendship, professional relationships.
Parents as Partners: Respecting diversity, communication, learning together.
Supporting Learning: Positive interactions, listening to children, effective teaching.
Key Person: Secure attachment, shared care, independence. |
| Enabling Environments |
Observation, Assessment and Planning: Starting with the child, planning, assessment.
Supporting Every Child: Children’s needs, the learning journey, working together.
The Learning Environment: The emotional environment, the outdoor environment, the indoor environment.
The Wider Context: Transitions and continuity, multi-agency working, the community. |
| Learning and Development |
Play and Exploration: Learning through experience, adult involvement, contexts for learning.
Active Learning: Mental and physical involvement, decision making, personalised learning.
Creativity and Physical Thinking: Making connections, transforming and understanding, sustained shared thinking.
Areas of Development and Learning. |
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The Areas of Development and Learning 
