Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Intent – Why do we teach what we teach?
At St Margaret’s CEVA Primary School, we believe every child deserves an education filled with rich, memorable experiences that spark curiosity, nurture creativity, and build essential skills and knowledge. Our aim is to lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning, helping children grow into confident, happy, and well rounded individuals who are prepared to thrive in an ever evolving world.
We are committed to giving our youngest learners the very best start by designing teaching and learning opportunities that support their development and unlock their full potential. Our learning environment is safe, stimulating, and inclusive where children collaborate with adults and peers in a culture of mutual respect. This empowers them to build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning that will carry them forward.
Implementation – How do we teach what we teach?
We understand that children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and supported. At St Margaret’s, our Early Years provision is built on strong relationships, a nurturing atmosphere, and a deep understanding of each child’s individual needs.
Learning is delivered through a balanced mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities, with cross-curricular planning that ensures coverage of all prime and specific areas of the EYFS framework. Children are encouraged to explore, investigate, and follow their interests giving them ownership of their learning journey.
- Phonics & Reading: We follow the Little Wandle Revised Letters and Sounds programme. FS1 focuses on Phase 1 phonics, while FS2 progresses through Phases 2, 3, and 4.
- Mathematics: In Reception, we use NCETM resources alongside the Maths Mastery approach, emphasising number sense and calculation through hands on, practical activities.
- Inclusive Support: All children learn together, but we offer tailored interventions such as catch-up phonics, targeted maths groups, and ELSA sessions to ensure every child is supported and challenged appropriately.
Impact – How do we know what pupils have learnt and how well they have learnt it?
Our children are active participants in their learning. They engage with a curriculum that is vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunities to explore the world around them—through celebrations, cultural studies, music, dance, art, history, and geography.