EYFS
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
At BESA, our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) department comprises Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) for children aged 3 to 4 years and Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) for children aged 4 to 5 years.
We adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework for England, which outlines seven key areas of learning and development that are essential for helping children reach their full potential. Each area is important and interdependent, providing a comprehensive foundation for future learning.
The three Prime Areas of learning are:
Communication and Language
Physical Development
Personal, Social & Emotional Development
These Prime Areas are vital for sparking children's curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, as well as for fostering their ability to learn, build relationships, and thrive. The EYFS framework specifies age-appropriate goals that children should achieve by the end of their Foundation Stage journey.
The Prime Areas are further enhanced and applied through four Specific Areas of learning:
Literacy
Mathematics
Understanding the World
Expressive Arts & Design
A significant portion of learning in the Foundation Stage is play-based. Through play, children explore their surroundings and develop valuable learning experiences that help them make sense of the world. They practice and refine their ideas, learn self-regulation, and understand the importance of rules. This environment allows them to think creatively, collaborate with peers, and communicate effectively as they investigate and solve problems.
Role-play activities provide children with opportunities to engage in a variety of scenarios, enhancing their social skills and imaginative play. In the Reception class, teaching methods gradually transition to a more formal style as the year progresses, preparing children for entry into Year One.
During this phase, there is a greater emphasis on Literacy and Mathematics, with children expected to engage in traditional learning activities for part of the day and to focus on their assigned tasks.
Rain or shine, much of our learning takes place outdoors, utilising BESA's extensive outdoor areas, including a substantial wooded area, which enhances children's connection to nature and promotes active exploration.
