The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the first statutory part of the National Curriculum, focusing on the distinctive needs of the children aged three to the end of the Reception Year in Primary School.

When they first join school, young children have a wide range of different experiences, skills and interests.  At Cross Gates Primary School, we believe the curriculum should be flexible and responsive to reflect individual needs, enthusiasms and learning styles.  At Cross Gates Primary School, the Foundation Curriculum is based on seven areas of learning.  It incorporates well-planned and resourced indoor and outdoor play.  Both indoor and outdoor learning environments provide opportunities for children to access the seven areas of learning.

"Well planned play is the key way in which children learn

with enjoyment and challenge during the Foundation Stage."

EYFS Curriculum Guidance

The Foundation Stage Profile is a summative assessment which records a child's development across all areas and provides a picture of the whole child.  We share this profile with our parents through the end of year report.

The seven areas of learning are:

• Personal, social and emotional development
• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Literacy
• Mathematical development
• Understanding of the world
• Expressive arts and design

"Parents provide a learning environment which is enduring and comprehensive.  It begins even before birth, operates beyond the child's day at the setting and provides continuity as the child transfers from one setting to another."

EYFS Curriculum Guidance

At Cross Gates Primary School, we work with parents as 'partners.'  Our parents and practitioners share a joint interest in and responsibility for, children's development and learning.  We expect that parents will contribute to their child's learning journey regularly and contribute to planning ideas about their child's interests and fascinations.  We invite you to attend workshops supporting learning and 'Reading Cafe/Stay and Play' sessions.