The Early Years Foundation Stage
The EYFS is a structure of learning, development and care laid out by
the government that all providers of early years education, from 0-5 years,
must follow.
The EYFS principles that guide the work of all practitioners are grouped as follows:
A Unique Child
Recognises that every child is a competent learner from birth who can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured. The commitments are focused around development; inclusion; safety; and health and well-being.
Positive Relationships
Children learn to be strong and independent from a base of loving and secure relationships with parents and/or a key person. The commitments are focused around respect; partnership with parents; supporting learning; and the role of the key person.
Enabling Environments
The environment plays a key role in supporting and extending children’s development and learning. The commitments are focused around observations, assessment and planning; support for every child; the learning environment; and the wider context – transitions, continuity, and multi-agency working.
Learning and Development
Recognises that children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates, and that all areas of learning and development are equally important and inter-connected.
This approach ensures that the EYFS meets the overarching aim of improving outcomes and reflects that it is every child’s right to grow up safe; healthy; enjoying and achieving; making a position contribution; and with economic well-being.