Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Curriculum

Click here to read our Early Years Foundation Stage brochure, where you'll find all the practical details about starting school, information about daily routines and activities, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Click here to find out more about teaching and learning in Nursery.

Click here to find out more about teaching and learning in Reception.

Intent

At Barrow Hedges, we want every child to have the very best start to their learning journey.

Our curriculum is carefully designed to support children to grow in confidence, independence and curiosity. We build on what children already know and can do, providing meaningful experiences that help them develop new skills, knowledge and understanding.

We create a safe, nurturing and engaging environment where children feel happy, secure and ready to learn. Through warm relationships and high-quality interactions, we support each child to thrive. We place a strong emphasis on helping every child feel a true sense of belonging from the very start. Through warm relationships, consistent routines and thoughtful transitions, all children feel known, valued and included within our community.

Learning in the early years is carefully planned to reflect children’s interests and next steps, ensuring all children, including those with SEND, are supported to make strong progress. We are committed to ensuring that every child, including those who may be disadvantaged or need additional support, feels equally welcomed and able to thrive, building confidence, security and a strong connection to school.

By the end of Early Years, children are well prepared for the next stage of their education, leaving us as confident, capable and enthusiastic learners.

The EYFS Curriculum at Barrow Hedges

Our curriculum provides a well-structured, nurturing and inclusive environment, both indoors and outdoors, where all children can learn and grow.

Learning is carefully planned to build on what children already know, with activities and experiences shaped around their interests and next steps. Ongoing assessment helps us to adapt our teaching so that every child is supported to make good progress.

Children develop confidence, independence and a love of learning. They are encouraged to explore, think creatively and engage deeply in their learning.

Strong, consistent relationships help children to feel secure and valued, creating the foundations for successful learning.

We are committed to equality of opportunity, ensuring that every child feels included, supported and able to succeed.

Overarching Principles

At Barrow Hedges, our Early Years provision is rooted in the Early Years Statutory Framework and a strong understanding of how young children learn and develop.

We believe that every child is unique, capable and full of potential. Positive, caring relationships help children to feel safe, confident and ready to learn.

Our environment is thoughtfully designed to support independence, curiosity and exploration, while meeting the individual needs of each child.

We work closely with parents and carers, recognising the importance of strong partnerships in helping children to thrive.

We understand that children develop in different ways and at different rates. Our inclusive approach ensures that all children, including those with SEND, are supported and valued.

See the attachment at the bottom of the page to find out more about what to expect in the Early Years.  This is a helpful overview for parents. 

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Booklet 2025

What to Expect in EYFS

Starting Strong - Helping Little Learners to Thrive Workshop 2025 Slides

Reception Reading Workshops 2025 Slides

Reception Writing Workshops 2025 Slides

Ms J Whittle (née Mrs J Covey) is the Early Years Leader