At Bethersden Primary School we value the importance of the Early Years Foundation Stage as we believe it helps to form the foundation on which children build the secure foundations for future learning and development. We aim to provide a nurturing, safe and stimulating environment that is sensitive to the needs of every child.

During the Reception year, we aim to provide a broad, balanced and creative curriculum that is aimed to establish a desire for future learning, where pupils are motivated and eager to continue learning.

• We will provide opportunities for children to learn through planned, purposeful play and child-initiated activities which support development across all areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum.
• We aim to encourage children’s decision-making skills, while fostering their independence and self-confidence.
• At Bethersden Primary School we value and encourage parental engagement and we work in partnership with parents and carers to develop and nurture their children, to support them to flourish in everything they do.

The Curriculum

 Activities are planned to support the seven areas of learning and development of which three are ‘prime areas’ and four are ‘specific areas’.

Prime areas are fundamental, work together and move through to support development in all other areas. They are crucial to support children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, building their capacity to learn, form relationships and to thrive in everyday life.

 The prime areas are:

• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development

Specific areas include essential skills and knowledge needed for early childhood development. The specific areas are:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Knowledge and Understanding the World
• Expressive arts and design

Click on the link below to view the EYFS curriculum map.