Early Years Foundation Stage Leader (2025-2026): Mrs Louise Bailey 

In our Reception class, every child is welcomed, valued, and encouraged to flourish within a culture shaped by St Mary’s deeply embedded Christian vision. We believe that each child is unique and created with dignity and purpose, and this belief guides everything we do. Our setting is highly inclusive and aspirational, nurturing a sense of hope, positivity, and belonging from the very start of each child’s learning journey.

Through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships, children develop early skills while also learning to show kindness, respect, and compassion. Our staff know our community well and work in partnership with families to ensure that every child feels supported to aim high and grow in confidence. 

Rooted in our Christian vision, we create an environment where pupils and adults alike can flourish—academically, socially, and spiritually—so that each child begins their school life with joy, curiosity, and a strong foundation for the future.

What Is the EYFS?

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the national framework for children from birth to age five. It sets the standards for learning, development, and care in all early years settings.

What We Aim For:

We help children become:

• confident and independent learners
• curious explorers
• happy,  secure, and ready for school

The 7 Areas of Learning:

Prime Areas

• Communication and Language – speaking, listening, understanding
• Physical Development – movement, coordination, healthy habits
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development – confidence, relationships, self‑awareness

Specific Areas

• Literacy – early reading and writing
• Mathematics – numbers, patterns, simple problem‑solving
• Understanding the World – people, places, nature, technology
• Expressive Arts and Design – creativity, music, art, imagination

How Children Learn:

Children learn best through:

• play and exploration
• hands‑on experiences
• following their interests
• positive relationships with adults and other children 

How we Support Learning:

• carefully planned activities
• a balance of child‑led and adult‑guided learning
• a safe, nurturing environment
• regular observations to understand each child’s progress

Working with Parents and Carers:

We value strong partnerships with families. We share updates, celebrate achievements, and welcome your insights about your child.

How we Teach in the Early Years Foundation Stage at St Mary’s C of E Primary Academy:

At our school, the Early Years Foundation Stage is all about giving children the best possible start to their learning journey. We create a nurturing, playful, and stimulating environment where every child feels safe, valued, and excited to discover new things.

Our Approach to Learning:

Children learn best when they are curious, engaged, and having fun ... that’s why our EYFS curriculum blends play‑based learning with carefully planned teaching to help children develop the skills they need for school and life.

Here’s what that looks like day to day ...

 A Balance of Child‑Led and Adult‑Led Learning:

• Child‑initiated play: children explore activities that interest them, helping them develop independence, creativity, and confidence.
• Adult‑guided sessions: adults introduce new ideas, model skills, and support children as they practise them.

 Learning Through Play:

• Hands‑on activities: building, role‑play, messy play, outdoor exploration, and creative arts
• Real‑life experiences: cooking, gardening, problem‑solving, and collaborative games

 Early Literacy and Maths:

• Daily story time to build vocabulary, imagination, and a love of reading
• Phonics sessions to help children learn letter sounds and early reading skills
• Practical maths activities such as counting, sorting, pattern‑making, and using numbers in everyday play

 Outdoor Learning:

• Daily outdoor play in all seasons
• Physical development activities that build strength, coordination, and confidence
• Nature‑based learning that encourages curiosity and problem‑solving

 Personal, Social, and Emotional Development:

• Circle times to help children talk about feelings and build friendships
• Positive routines that help children feel secure and ready to learn
• Opportunities for independence such as tidying up, choosing activities, and managing personal belongings

 A Rich and Stimulating Environment:

• Inviting learning areas such as construction, reading corners, creative zones, and small‑world play
• Resources children can access independently to encourage choice and exploration
• Displays that celebrate children’s work and support learning

Working in Partnership with Parents and Carers:

We believe children thrive when school and home work together. We keep parents and carers involved through:

• Regular updates on learning and progress
• Workshops and information sessions
• Open communication with adults 
• Opportunities to join in with events, reading mornings, and celebrations