Reception

Introduction to the EYFS

‘Every child deserves the best possible start in life and support to fulfil their potential. A child’s experience in the early years has a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its own right, and it provides the foundation for children to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up.’ 

Early Years Foundation Stage

At Parkroyal, we believe that the early years of a child’s education are crucial, where pupils continue their learning journey through focused, guided and free play.  Our Early Year’s curriculum is based on the ‘Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage’.

We assess the children on entry and build on the progress made in the children’s previous setting, through close and mutually beneficial links. The curriculum is divided into seven areas of learning:

The prime areas:

• Personal, social and emotional development

• Communication and language

• Physical development

The specific areas:

• Literacy

• Mathematics

• Understanding the world

• Expressive art and design

The three prime areas of learning are given more emphasis as they are the building blocks upon which children can investigate the more academic specific areas.  

Learning through play

‘Children’s play reflects their wide ranging and varied interests and preoccupations. In their play children learn at their highest level. Play with peers is important for children’s development.’ 

Early Years Foundation Stage

At Parkroyal,  we support children’s learning through free and planned play activities. We believe that it is important for adults to support children’s learning through play, by getting involved in the play themselves.  

The Learning environment

'A rich and varied environment supports children's learning and development. It gives them them confidence to explore and learn in a secure and safe, yet, challenging, indoor and outdoor spaces.'

Early Years Foundation Stage

We aim t create an attractive, welcoming and stimulating environment which will encourage children to explore, investigate and learn through first-hand experience. Children should feel secure and confident and are challenged to develop their independence. The planned activities and play use both indoor and outdoor spaces, with children being able to choose their preferred method of child initiated learning for large parts of the day.

The learning environment is divided into a variety of different learning areas: book corner; role play; numeracy; creative etc. Children are encouraged to become independent learners and take some responsibility for their own lines of enquiry and investigation. EYFS staff track the track the children through the learning environments by using a 'choose board' where children place their names in specific areas, showing the adults which activities they have self - chosen.