Childcare professionals, the UK Government and Ofsted recognise how important and ‘foundational’ the first few years of a child’s life are. For this reason, a statutory learning and development framework has been developed to cover the period from birth to 5 years of age. Known as the Early Years Foundation Stage (‘EYFS’), it forms the basis of the early years learning and development curriculum for early years providers like Little Acorns Nursery.

As well as covering elements like safeguarding and standards of care, the EYFS defines the 7 key areas of focus for under-fives:

• Communication and Language*;
• Physical Development*;
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development*;
• Literacy;
• Mathematics;
• Understanding the World;
• Expressive Arts and Design.

* The first 3 areas are known as the prime areas of focus and these are designed to build the foundational ‘core’ of children’s early learning and development. These will ignite curiosity and a desire to learn, whilst also encouraging the forming of healthy relationships. They will give children the key tools to thrive, going forwards.

The remaining 4 areas are known as the specific areas of focus, giving children additional skills, education and understanding whilst expanding their creativity. They will also strengthen the 3 prime areas.

By skilfully implementing the EYFS principles, the childcare practitioners at Little Acorns Nursery ensure that every child achieves their full potential in every area and is well prepared for both school and life in general when they leave us at the age of 5.