Early Years Curriculum – Eastfield Infants School

At Eastfield, our Early Years consists of Nursery (Fox class) and our two Reception classes (Rabbits and Squirrels). Children can join our Nursery the term after they turn 3 and can access morning and afternoon sessions.

By the end of their time in EYFS, we want our children to be well-rounded, happy and confident pupils who have learnt how to become curious and excited learners. Our aim is to provide the best possible start to the children’s educational journey, helping to develop a life-long love of learning and ensuring the children are prepared for the next part of their learning journey as they move into Key Stage 1.

For this to be possible, we have made sure our curriculum is ambitious in its knowledge content and tailored to suit the needs and next steps of all learners. The knowledge our children gain from our enriching and challenging curriculum gives children the start they need to succeed in life. The Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning underpin our curriculum and supports the children in knowing how to learn, along with the skills they will to be able to embed their learning.

In both our Reception and Nursery settings, our timetables are carefully planned to allow the children a balance of time spent in child initiate learning, as well as discreet teaching and adult led time.

All of our Early Years staff are highly qualified and motivated to ensure that each and every child is able to make progress and achieve. We get to know every child, where they are currently working at and how to support them in being able to achieve their next steps.

Our staff also understand the impact communication and language can have on the rest of the children’s learning. Vocabulary development is extremely valued, not only in Early Years but across the school as a whole. As a school, we have achieved the Communication Friendly Setting status and ensure that communication and language skills are taught throughout the children’s time at Eastfield.

In Early Years, we tailor our learning and our topics to suit the needs and interests of the children. Our learning environments are highly engaging and to inspire the children to want to take part in the learning activities. The environment set up encourages the children to trial and apply their new learning, use their communication and language skills as well as their personal, social and emotional skills.

Outdoor learning is a key part of our curriculum and both our Nursery and Reception classes have their own outdoor learning spaces. All areas of the curriculum are planned for and accessed by the children both inside the classroom and outside. We are also very lucky to have access to the wonderful school grounds which includes a playground, field area, adventure playground, pond area and a small wooded area called ‘The Spinney’.

We use our local community to develop our children’s cultural capital. We build in opportunities for trips, visitors and hands on experiences to aid the children in being able to make secure links in their learning.

If you are thinking of applying for a space in our Nursery or Reception classes, please feel free to contact the main school office to arrange a visit.