Our Approach to Learning in EYFS and Key Stage 1

We believe that strong foundations are essential to children’s future learning. By creating a safe, happy and nurturing environment filled with motivating and enjoyable experiences, we aim to develop confident, enthusiastic learners with a lifelong love of education.

Central to our curriculum in Early Years and Key Stage 1 is the understanding that children learn and develop in different ways and at different rates. We value all areas of learning equally and recognise how deeply interconnected they are. Our approach focusses on developing the whole child — supporting physical, social, emotional and academic growth — so that every child in our care feels happy, confident and purposeful in their learning.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

In Early Years, we provide an engaging and enabling environment where children are encouraged to explore, investigate and immerse themselves in learning. A strong emphasis is placed on child-initiated play, which allows children to follow their own interests, think deeply, practise and develop key skills, and become intrinsically motivated learners.

We offer long, uninterrupted periods of play both indoors and outdoors. During these sessions, children lead their own learning while adults observe, interact and skilfully support learning moments as they arise. We believe play is a powerful vehicle for learning, enabling children of all starting points to make sense of the world around them, build confidence, develop independence and nurture curiosity.

Alongside this, short, focused teaching inputs are carefully planned to secure essential foundational knowledge and skills. This balanced approach ensures that children leave EYFS as confident, motivated learners who are well-prepared for the transition into Key Stage 1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Key Stage 1

As children move into Key Stage 1, the principles of independent, purposeful learning continue within more curriculum-focused classroom environments. Carefully planned enhanced provision offers children a range of curriculum-linked challenges and resources throughout the week, enabling them to independently apply and consolidate skills taught during lessons.

Teaching inputs remain succinct and highly focused, ensuring key knowledge and skills are clearly taught. During enhanced provision time, children revisit and extend prior learning, deepen their understanding, or present their learning in creative and meaningful ways.

Adults play an active role during these sessions, supporting children in their independent tasks or working closely with small focus groups. This ensures children receive personalised guidance, targeted teaching and immediate feedback on a daily basis.

Through this approach, children leave Key Stage 1 with strong learning foundations, growing independence and positive attitudes towards learning — equipping them to continue their educational journey as confident, successful and lifelong learners.