Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Chalgrove Primary School

At Chalgrove, we follow the EYFS Framework (2021). Our approach is guided by four key principles:

1. Every child is unique – constantly learning, resilient, capable, confident, and self-assured.

2. Positive relationships – children develop independence and strength through supportive relationships.

3. Enabling environments – children thrive in environments tailored to their interests and needs, with strong partnerships between staff and families.

4. Importance of learning and development – children develop at different rates, including those with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities).

Areas of Learning

The EYFS curriculum is made up of seven interconnected areas:

Prime Areas (essential for curiosity, relationships, and thriving):

• Communication & Language

• Physical Development

• Personal, Social & Emotional Development

Specific Areas (build on the prime areas):

• Literacy

• Mathematics

• Understanding the World

• Expressive Arts & Design

Characteristics of Effective Learning

Throughout EYFS, children develop through:

• Playing & Exploring – investigating, experiencing, and “having a go.”

• Active Learning – concentrating, persisting, and enjoying achievements.

• Creating & Thinking Critically – developing ideas, making connections, and problem-solving.

These characteristics guide how we observe, reflect, and adapt learning to each child’s needs.

Early Learning Goals (ELGs)

Communication & Language

Listening, Attention & Understanding – Listen carefully, respond, and engage in discussions.
Speaking – Share ideas, explain reasoning, and use new vocabulary in full sentences.

Personal, Social & Emotional Development

Self-Regulation – Understand and manage feelings, follow instructions, and set simple goals.
Managing Self – Show independence, resilience, and understanding of rules and hygiene.
Building Relationships – Cooperate, take turns, and form positive attachments.

Physical Development

Gross Motor Skills – Move safely, demonstrating strength, balance, and coordination.
Fine Motor Skills – Hold pencils correctly, use tools, and show care in drawing and crafting.

Literacy

Comprehension – Retell stories, anticipate events, and use new vocabulary.
Word Reading – Recognise sounds, blend words, and read simple sentences.
Writing – Form letters, spell words phonetically, and write simple sentences.

Mathematics

Number – Understand numbers to 10, subitise, and recall number bonds.
Numerical Patterns – Count beyond 20, compare quantities, and explore number patterns.

Understanding the World

Past & Present – Explore lives and roles of people, past and present.
People, Culture & Communities – Learn about local and global communities.
The Natural World – Observe nature, explore processes, and understand changes in the environment.

Expressive Arts & Design

Creating with Materials – Explore materials, tools, and techniques safely.
Being Imaginative & Expressive – Invent stories, sing, perform, and move creatively.

Our Approach

• Learning through play, observation, modelling, guided learning, and direct teaching.

• Flexible plans allow us to respond to children’s interests and needs.

• Children leave Reception with a strong foundation for future learning and a love of exploring, creating, and thinking critically.