EYFS

The EYFS curriculum is underpinned by the seven areas of learning and development. We design our curriculum so that it emphasises the development of the three prime areas (Communication and Language Development; Physical Development; and Personal, Social and Emotional Development) as an essential foundation for the specific areas (Maths, Literacy, Expressive Arts & Design and Understanding the World) to develop from.  At Westwood, we prioritise Communication & Language development as a gateway to all areas of learning. We aim to provide a language rich environment with practitioners who are confident in modelling and extending children’s language skills. Each child is unique and we have designed our EYFS curriculum to support and encourage children to become independent, creative and critical thinkers. We aim to develop self-regulated learners who are motivated, engaged and who have been exposed to experiences that increase their cultural capital. All practitioners are supported to be reflective and responsive in conjunction with the EYFS framework/Development Matters to make sure that next steps are catered to children’s individual learning needs. 

In EYFS, learning always has a high focus on holistic child development. Knowing the children and how they learn is at the heart of our approach. We understand the importance of strong positive relationships and wellbeing in order for each child to thrive at school. The role of the adult is a key aspect to facilitating learning, resulting in high quality education which is inclusive and consistent for all children. Our environment also ensures opportunities for all children to challenge themselves and reach their true potential regardless of starting points.

Themes 

The curriculum is structured around half termly themes:

Marvellous Me, Light & Dark / It’s Christmas, Our World, Heroes, Living & Growing and Wildlife Watchers. 

These themes provide the focus for the half term and high quality texts are selected linked to these themes.  Experiences are planned to link to the book focus and theme. The themes and texts have been chosen to align with the Westwood Values of ‘IDEAS’. They provide the children with a diverse experience of people, places and communities as well as broadening their experiences and understanding.

Continuous Provision (Exploring & Learning) 

At Westwood, we understand the importance of continuous provision to enable the wider aspects of learning within the EYFS curriculum. Pupils have access to a rich, stimulating environment (both inside and outside) for igniting curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. 

The EYFS learning environment is set up to promote confidence, independence and inspiration. Our goal is to create a safe learning environment that inspires and engages children. This will motivate children to explore all different types of learning.

Children access their own classroom which contains a variety of learning areas: Writing & Phonics, Storytelling & Reading, Role Play, Maths, Investigation, Creative & Construction. Each room also has calm spaces for children to regulate their emotions. 

Outdoors, all classes access the space together; this allows for social development and interaction. Outside there are the follow areas: Physical, Construction, Sand, Water, Mud KItchen, Den Building, Storytelling, Reading & Expressive Area, Maths as well as Malleable & Mark marking. Writing opportunities are promoted throughout the area. 

During these sessions, pupils are introduced to the provision opportunities through dedicated ‘learning walks’ led by practitioners and are allowed to independently choose where their explorations will take place. Continuous provision is planned through a combination of ‘contextual’ provocations connected to our half term themes as well as responsive enhancements based on child initiated learning, interests and specific needs. Our goal is to create continuous provision which stimulates awe and wonder for the children we teach.