Learning and development

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

To learn more about the EYFS, please visit: www.gov.uk/early-years-foundation-stage

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the statutory framework for all early years providers. It sets the standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to five years old.

The EYFS is built around four key themes:

1. A Unique Child

Every child is unique and constantly learning. The EYFS celebrates each child's individual strengths and encourages resilience, confidence, and independence.

2. Positive Relationships

Children grow and learn best through strong, supportive relationships with adults and peers. We nurture secure, respectful, and caring connections with every child.

3. Enabling Environments

Children thrive in environments that respond to their needs. We create safe, engaging spaces and work closely with parents and carers to support every child’s development.

4. Learning and Development

Children learn in many different ways. The EYFS framework supports all children, including those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), through a broad and balanced approach to care and learning.

Areas of Learning and Development

The EYFS framework is split into seven key areas of learning and development. These are grouped into three Prime Areas and four Specific Areas.

Prime Areas of Learning

Communication & Language

Children develop their listening, understanding, and speaking skills through group discussions, stories, songs, rhymes, and everyday conversation. We encourage children to expand their vocabulary and express their ideas confidently, especially during welcome time, snack time, and group activities.

Personal, Social & Emotional Development

This area includes making relationships, building self-confidence, and managing emotions. We support each child in becoming independent, respectful, and self-aware. Children are encouraged to cooperate with others, share resources, and express feelings in healthy ways. We use simple tools like timers to help with sharing and turn-taking.

Physical Development

Through indoor and outdoor play, children develop gross and fine motor skills. Activities focus on moving and handling, as well as health and self-care. We offer a variety of equipment, including:

A soft-surfaced play area with climbing frames and balance structures
A garden for growing fruit and vegetables
A dedicated fenced forest area used for smaller group activities

Children also improve their fine motor control with tools like pencils, scissors, and construction toys. We promote healthy habits, such as hand washing, healthy eating, and self-care routines.

Potty Training – We’re happy to support your child with toilet training. Let us know your routine at home, and we’ll follow the same approach here. We're always here to help however we can.

We aim to provide at least 60 minutes of outdoor time each day.

Specific Areas of Learning

Mathematics

Children explore numbers, counting, shapes, space, and measurement through fun, hands-on activities. They are introduced to early problem-solving, pattern recognition, and mathematical language. Songs, stories, and games help reinforce learning.

Understanding the World

This area encourages children to explore their environment and learn about people, communities, and technology. Children talk about their families and experiences, learn about nature and the world around them, and take part in eco-friendly practices like recycling. We also offer simple technology tools to support problem-solving and creative play.

Expressive Arts & Design

Children are given opportunities to explore colour, texture, shape, and form through art, music, dance, role play, and storytelling. They use a range of materials—from paint and crayons to junk modelling supplies—to express their ideas and imagination. Dressing up and themed role play help spark creativity.

Literacy

Children are introduced to reading and writing in fun and meaningful ways. They learn that print carries meaning and begin to understand the purpose of writing and storytelling. We offer a cosy book area, regular story times, and adult-led reading sessions to help every child build confidence with books and language.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

At Manthorpe Playgroup, we welcome all children and are committed to creating a happy, secure, and inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

We support children with a wide range of additional needs through:

A broad and balanced Early Years curriculum
Participation in both structured activities and free play
Close partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies when needed
Regular input and guidance from our Early Years Support Teacher

Our goal is to ensure every child is supported to reach their full potential. Parents and carers are always welcome to speak with staff about their child’s progress.

Our Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) is Shelley Odams, who is available to answer any questions and offer support as needed.