EYFS
The Early Years Foundation stage applies to both Nursery and Reception aged children in school
At The Hermitage Infant School, we provide a stimulating and engaging curriculum that encourages children to explore, challenge themselves, and develop a love of learning. Our aim is for children to grow physically, cognitively, socially and emotionally, whilst developing their communication skills within a culturally inclusive environment which fosters confidence, independence, and positive interactions with others. We understand that play is an integral part of learning and this is at the heart of our early years curriculum. We believe that the correct mix of adult directed and child-initiated learning ensures the best outcomes for pupils. Our ethos is to inspire our pupils with a rich curriculum which helps them to learn and achieve their goals. Strong relationships with staff and parents, consistent routines, and a focus on early education form the foundation of a child's learning journey.
The curriculum is topic-based, providing engaging and relevant experiences, with regular use of local areas and school visitors to enrich the children's learning. We create a ‘language-rich’ environment with songs, rhymes, stories, and quality adult-child interactions. The Read, Write Inc program is central to our reading approach, and children are encouraged to develop their oracy skills through activities like 'Poetry Basket' and 'Drawing Club.'
Daily lessons in Literacy, Maths, and Phonics are followed by group work for focused learning. Circle times are used to explore other areas like knowledge of the world, arts, and physical development. We provide ample opportunities for children to engage in sustained, self-directed learning through both indoor and outdoor play, where they can explore their interests. Continuous provision allows children to collaborate, solve problems, and reflect on their learning with adult guidance.
Assessment is ongoing, based on observations and discussions with parents. Regular team meetings ensure that any developmental concerns are promptly addressed, and strategies for support are discussed. We value parental involvement and share termly learning updates, including phonics resources and personalized activities, to support learning at home.
Our children will be engaged in their learning, demonstrating enjoyment and curiosity. They will develop essential knowledge and skills, and the ability to apply effective learning characteristics. By the end of Foundation Stage, our children will be well-prepared for lifelong learning, having developed the skills required for success in everyday life. Through a mix of enriching play-based experiences and structured teaching, children will make good progress, retaining key concepts, and building happy, inquisitive attitudes toward learning.
EYFS Curriculum
From September 2021 The Early Years Framework sets out the standards that all early years providers must lay out for children aged 2 – 5. The National Curriculum lays out standards for children beyond Early Years.
The Early Years Framework is made up of seven areas of learning.
The prime areas of learning are:
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal social and emotional development
The specific areas of learning are:
- Literacy
- Maths
- Understanding of the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
The Early Learning Goal surmise’s what each child should achieve in each area of learning by the end of their reception year. At The Oaktree School we use Development Matters - a non-statutory assessment framework which enables teachers to track attainment and progress for each child against the curriculum. For more information about The Early Years please read the Framework.
