What is the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)?
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers the crucial period in your child’s life from birth to age five. It lays the foundations for all future learning and development.
It prepares children for school and lifelong learning.
Experiences during this stage should be:
- Happy
- Active
- Fun
- Secure
- Full of development opportunities
All nurseries, pre-schools, childminders, and reception classes registered to deliver the EYFS must follow the statutory Early Years Foundation Stage Framework; a legal document that ensures consistent, high-quality care and education.
Our Approach at Little Sparks
At Little Sparks, we follow the Birth to 5 Matters curriculum, helping children make steady progress towards their Early Learning Goals by the end of the Reception year.
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- We create stimulating, child-led learning environments built around each child’s interests.
- Activities are carefully planned to:
- Encourage exploration and independence
- Support children's next steps in learning
- Scaffold development with adult guidance
- Children are supported to grow socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively through purposeful play.
Learning Through Play and Nature
Outdoor learning plays a big role in our curriculum.
- Children access the outdoor environment every day, regardless of the weather.
- Outdoor play supports:
- Gross motor skill development
- Curiosity about the world around them
- Broader, bolder engagement with the curriculum
- Opportunities to investigate, create, and take risks in a natural setting
Highly Qualified and Passionate Team
Our team is committed to delivering exceptional early years education.
- 2 fully qualified Early Years Teachers
- 3 staff members with childcare-related degrees
- Several Level 3 qualified practitioners
- Dedicated apprentices learning from experienced staff
Our passionate, knowledgeable staff create a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child is supported to reach their full potential.
A Strong Start for Every Child
The EYFS Framework provides all early years professionals with a shared set of principles and commitments, ensuring every child receives high-quality education and care during their formative years. At Little Sparks, this framework guides everything we do, giving parents confidence that their child’s learning, development, and wellbeing are at the heart of our approach. No matter where families choose to begin their early education journey, the same statutory standards and values will support each child's experience.
More information about the EYFS is displayed within the nursery and is available on request. We’re always happy to talk through how it supports your child’s development.