In This Section
EYFS
At The Radstone we believe that children should be at the centre of everything we do. This is our philosophy throughout the school and is particularly important in Early Years Foundation Stage.
"Play is the work of childhood." Jean Piaget
Curriculum Intent
At The Radstone we believe that children should be at the centre of everything we do. This is our philosophy throughout the school and is particularly important in Early Years Foundation Stage.
Our Early Years Unit is a welcoming, stimulating and child-centred environment. We strive to enable every child to develop their full potential through providing a range of learning experiences. We encourage children to develop their existing skills, knowledge and understanding through exploration of child-centred provision, alongside more formal focused learning in groups and 1-1 when appropriate. During their time spent in Early Years we will help children to settle into the routines of school and ensure that they are making progress both academically and socially.
The Early Years Foundation Stage is the period of learning and development from birth to the end of their first year in school (Reception). It is called the Early Years Foundation Stage because it gives children secure foundations to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up. The Early Years Foundation Stage forms a holistic approach, which aims to develop the whole child socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Children are born ready, able and eager to learn. By taking each unique child and helping them to develop positive relationships within an enabling environment we will see them learn and develop.
Within Early Years we believe that every child is a Mathematician, Author, Illustrator, Artist, Engineer, Scientist, Storyteller, Actor, Composer, Singer, Dancer, Problem Solver and much much more. Throughout the day the children are able to access all areas and learning resources that the unit offers, allowing them to become who they want to be.
Implementation
Our approach is underpinned by the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework which explains how and what children will be learning to support their healthy development. At The Radstone children in the Early Years will be learning skills, acquiring new knowledge and demonstrating their understanding through 7 areas of learning and development.
Throughout the EYFS there is a strong emphasis on learning through play, both child and adult initiated. In our Early Years classes we plan for learning opportunities as a whole class, in small adult-focused groups and through free-flow access to a variety of learning resources either indoors or in one of our two outdoor areas.
The EYFS curriculum is made up of three prime areas: Communication and Language, Physical Development and Personal, Social and Emotional Development, and four specific areas: Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World and Expressive Arts and Design. Planning for children’s learning and activities is based on these 7 areas, using the children’s interests to engage and enthuse. The Early Years team make sure that all activities are suited to the children’s unique needs, ensure progress for all, and inspire awe and wonder. In addition to our daily activities, children’s learning is enhanced through weekly forest school, PE and cookery lessons.
At the end of the EYFS children are assessed against the Early Learning Goals, which indicate the level of development that ‘most’ children should achieve. Children will be assessed against each goal as meeting the expected level or working towards the expected level.
Above all our aim is that your child’s first year in school is a happy one that builds on their nursery or pre-school experiences. We are sure that they will enjoy making new friends, learning new skills and having lots of fun!
Impact
The impact of our EYFS curriculum is evident in the following outcomes:
- Progress and Attainment: Children make at least good progress from their starting points across all areas of learning. By the end of Reception, most children achieve the Early Learning Goals, with some exceeding them.
- School Readiness: Children develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary for a smooth transition into Year 1. They are well-prepared to engage with the National Curriculum.
- Love for Learning: Children demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and a natural curiosity about the world around them. They are confident to explore, ask questions, and take on new challenges.
- Communication Skills: Children develop strong communication and language skills, including improved oracy. They can express their ideas clearly and confidently in a range of situations.
- Independence and Resilience: Children show increased independence in their learning and daily activities. They demonstrate resilience when facing challenges and are willing to persevere.
- Social and Emotional Development: Children form positive relationships with adults and peers. They show an understanding of their own emotions and those of others, demonstrating empathy and respect.
- Physical Development: Children develop both fine and gross motor skills, supporting their overall physical development and preparation for writing.
- Foundational Skills: Children acquire key foundational skills in literacy and mathematics, providing a strong basis for future learning.
We assess these impacts through:
- Ongoing observations and assessments, including the EYFSP (Early Years Foundation Stage Profile) completed at the end of Reception.
- Regular monitoring of teaching and learning by SLT and the EYFS leader.
- Discussions with children about their learning experiences.
- Feedback from parents and carers about their child's development.
- Successful transitions into Year 1, with children demonstrating readiness for the next stage of their education.
This comprehensive approach, grounded in our school's ethos of Quality, Enthusiasm, and Partnership, ensures that The Radstone Primary School provides an EYFS education that not only meets national standards but also nurtures happy, confident, and well-rounded individuals ready for their next steps in learning and life.
Key Information
The document below sets out our plan for skills progression through our Early Years teaching during the children's first year at Bracken Leas. It sets out the key areas of learning and expected progress for children in this year group.
TRPS EYFS Progression of Skills 2025-26