Understanding the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers the crucial period in your child’s life from birth to age five. It’s an incredibly important stage that helps prepare children for school and sets the foundations for lifelong learning and success.
During these years, children’s experiences should be happy, active, fun, secure, and full of opportunities to develop in every way. The right early years setting will support each child’s development, meet their needs, and provide core learning experiences that shape their future.
What is the EYFS Framework?
All nurseries, pre-schools, reception classes, and childminders registered to deliver the EYFS must follow the statutory Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. This legal document ensures consistent, high-quality care and education for every child.
The EYFS Framework provides professionals with a shared set of principles and commitments, giving parents confidence that, wherever they choose for their child’s early education, the same standards and values will support their child’s learning and development.
More information about the EYFS is displayed within our nursery and is always available on request.
Our Approach at Little Sparks
At Little Sparks, we follow the Birth to 5 Matters curriculum, guiding children towards their Early Learning Goals by the end of the Reception year.
We create stimulating, child-led learning environments built around each child’s interests. Our activities are thoughtfully planned to:
- Encourage exploration and independence
- Support children’s next steps in learning
- Scaffold development with gentle adult guidance
Through purposeful play, we nurture every child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
Learning Through Play and Nature
Outdoor learning is an important part of life at Little Sparks. Children access our outdoor spaces every day, whatever the weather, as we believe fresh air and nature are essential to healthy development.
- Outdoor play supports:
- Gross motor skills development
- Curiosity about the world
- Broader and bolder engagement with learning
- Opportunities for investigation, creativity, and risk-taking in a natural environment
Our varied outdoor areas—including sensory spaces, adventure zones, and learning hubs—provide endless chances for discovery and fun.
A Strong Start for Every Child
At Little Sparks, the EYFS Framework guides everything we do, ensuring each child receives high-quality care and education during their formative years.
Parents can feel confident that their child’s learning, development, and wellbeing are at the heart of our approach. We’re always happy to discuss how the EYFS supports your child and answer any questions you might have about their early years journey.
