Foundation Stage
Statement of Intent
At The Priory Catholic Voluntary Academy, our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is committed to fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where every child feels valued, confident, and ready to learn. We believe that early childhood is a critical time for development, and our EYFS curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity, encourage exploration, and support children in building the foundations for lifelong learning. Our intent is to provide high-quality, play-based learning experiences that promote the development of the whole child—socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically—while ensuring that children acquire the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through a balance of adult-led and child-initiated activities, we aim to inspire a love for learning, develop resilience, and cultivate independence, laying the groundwork for academic success and personal growth throughout the school journey.
Implementation:
At The Priory, the EYFS curriculum is delivered through a structured, yet flexible approach, that emphasises the importance of both teacher guidance and child-led exploration. Our practitioners plan carefully sequenced activities that align with the seven key areas of learning: Communication and Language, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Physical Development, Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design.
- Learning Environment: Our classroom and outdoor space are thoughtfully designed to provide stimulating, sensory-rich environments that encourage hands-on exploration and play. Learning zones, such as reading corners, creative stations, and role-play areas, allow children to engage with resources in meaningful ways, facilitating both individual and group learning.
- Play-Based Learning: We emphasise the importance of learning through play, ensuring children engage in purposeful, playful experiences that support their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Play is structured to allow for problem-solving, collaboration, and experimentation, ensuring children are actively involved in their learning process.
- Individualised Learning: Recognising that every child is unique, we differentiate our teaching to meet the varying needs and abilities of our pupils. Through ongoing assessment and observation, we tailor learning experiences to ensure all children, including those with additional needs, are supported and challenged to reach their full potential.
- Parental Involvement: We value strong partnerships with parents and carers, recognising them as key partners in their child’s education. Regular communication and opportunities for parents to participate in classroom activities foster a collaborative approach to learning.
Impact:
The EYFS at The Priory provides a strong foundation for children’s future success, both academically and personally. Our approach ensures that by the end of the Reception year, children are confident, independent learners who have developed a love for learning. Key outcomes include:
- School Readiness: Children leave the EYFS with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for a smooth transition into Key Stage 1, including well-developed language, communication, and early literacy and numeracy skills.
- Holistic Development: Through a balanced curriculum, children develop not only academically but also socially and emotionally, demonstrating resilience, empathy, and the ability to work collaboratively with others.
- Love for Learning: Our child-centred approach fosters curiosity and creativity, ensuring children are engaged and motivated to continue their learning journey with enthusiasm and confidence.
- Parental Satisfaction: Parents are confident in their children’s progress and are active participants in their learning, contributing to a positive and supportive school community.
Through our EYFS provision, The Priory strives to give every child the best possible start in their educational journey, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive throughout their time in school and beyond.
Megan Singleton – EYFS Lead
