Early Years Curriculum

The Early Years is a time unlike any other - full of milestones, moments of awe, and achievements that shape a child’s identity as a learner.

It is a truly magical stage of development because:

• Children see possibilities everywhere.
• Learning is joyful, hands‑on, and full of meaning.
• Progress happens quickly and visibly.
• Children form their first friendships and begin to understand themselves.
• Curiosity leads the way, and every discovery feels exciting.

Our EYFS curriculum lays the foundations for a lifetime of learning with confidence, enthusiasm, and a love of discovery.

The Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning (CoETL) are a core part of the statutory EYFS framework. They describe how children learn, and they underpin every aspect of our EYFS curriculum.

The Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning are:

Playing and Exploring – Engagement

Children learn through curiosity, exploration, and hands-on play. When children feel confident to try new things, investigate materials, and follow their interests, they build the foundations for deep understanding.

This underpins the curriculum by helping children access learning in a joyful, meaningful, and self-directed way.

Active Learning – Motivation

Young children develop perseverance, focus, and pride in their achievements when they are absorbed in activities that challenge and excite them.

This supports the curriculum by encouraging children to stick with tasks, practise new skills, and develop resilience – this is key for early literacy, maths, and wider learning.

Creating and Thinking Critically – Thinking

Early years learners need chances to solve problems, make connections, and test their ideas.

This underpins the curriculum by promoting early reasoning skills, creativity, and the ability to think independently – this is central to understanding the world and developing early communication and maths.

 Every moment matters and these characteristics shape our planning, influence the way we set up our classrooms, and guide the interactions we have with children each day. Most importantly, they help us ensure that learning is meaningful and deeply rooted.