The EYFS Explained
The EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) sets the standards for learning and development and care of children from birth - 5 years old. All schools and Ofsted registered early years providers must follow the EYFS, including childminders, preschools, nurseries and school reception classes.
As the core document it supports all early year's professionals in the delivery of an integrated learning and care approach, with a set of common principles and commitments to deliver high quality early education and childcare experiences to all children.
We do this by following clear guidelines ensuring that all children are safeguarded, so they are free to play and have fun with good quality play experiences that benefit a child's developing social skills and their ability to learn. We fulfil our responsibility to provide a safe setting/environment where children can grow and learn, and we ensure our settings promote the welfare of the child. A safe environment is one with, effective procedures to deal with preventing the spread of infection or dealing in an appropriate way to illness in the setting; and one with a clear risk assessment and clean safe age appropriate toys. A safe environment that promotes their welfare is one where a child's behaviour is effectively managed in a way appropriate to their own individual needs and stage of development. As part of creating a safe environment we make sure the child's emotional needs are met, with a chance to make a warm, close, affectionate relationship with an adult; where every child and their family regardless of their background and culture are equally respected and valued. We create an environment in which they learn to make friends and begin to learn and understand the world around them, and one in which their physical, spiritual, social, linguistic and cognitive needs are met.
Ofsted inspect all early year's providers using the 'Early years inspection handbook for Ofsted registered provision'. The inspection evaluates the setting's ability to deliver the curriculum (EYFS) and makes a judgement in line with the EIF (Education Inspection Framework) on the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and overall effectiveness. Ofsted then award a judgement grade 1 - Outstanding, grade 2 - good, grade 3 - requires improvement, grade 4 - inadequate.
As a parent you can take comfort in the knowledge that every aspect of your child's day and learning experiences are carefully considered to ensure they have the best opportunity to flourish.