At Sir Francis Hill Primary School Early Years, we work tirelessly to ensure children are happy in school and feel resilient, safe, and secure. We will provide quality learning experiences that spark the children’s interests and imagination. We build positive relationships with the child and their family and work together to help children fulfil their potential and prepare for the next step in their educational journey.

What do we aim to achieve? (Intent)

We want every child to thrive and succeed. Our Early Years curriculum is designed to:

• Give all children an equal chance to succeed.
• Focus on language development, play, and building strong relationships.
• Celebrate each child’s individuality and interests.
• Work closely with parents and carers to support learning at home and school.
• Help children become confident, curious, and resilient learners.

We follow four key Early Years principles:

1. Every child is unique.
2. Children grow through positive relationships.
3. Our classrooms and outdoor spaces are enabling environments.
4. Children learn and develop in different ways and at different rates.

How do we teach? (Implementation)

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework, which includes:

• Prime Areas: Communication & Language, Personal/Social/Emotional Development, Physical Development.
• Specific Areas: Literacy, Maths, Understanding the World, Expressive Arts & Design.

Children learn through:

• Play, exploration, and guided activities.
• Phonics teaching using Read Write Inc.
• Outdoor learning all year round.
• Small group and one-to-one support.
• Seesaw online journal to share learning with families.

We tailor learning to each child’s needs and interests, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), English as an Additional Language (EAL), or other challenges.

How do we know children are learning? (Impact)

We regularly assess children’s progress through:

• Observations and interactions.
• Formal checks like phonics assessments.
• Parent contributions via our online Learning Journal - Seesaw.

By the end of Reception, children:

• Show strong communication and social skills.
• Are ready for Year 1 with increased independence.
• Have developed a wide range of skills across the curriculum.
• Are happy, confident, and curious learners.