Early Years Statutory Framework

Early years learning usually runs with adults working with children on focused activities that have specific concepts such as play involving using numbers, starting letter formation and language activities. The classroom will usually contain educational toys/play areas and children will be encouraged to work/play independently and choose from a wide range of activities. Foundation stage classrooms/areas also have facilities outside the classroom for outside play.

early education. As these skills develop it is also important to maintain what has been learned and

1.1 Explain each of the areas of learning and development and how these are interdependent. The EYFS sets out seven areas of learning and development, all of which are important and interconnected. There are three prime areas which are important for firing children’s curiosity and enthusiasm, as well as helping them form relationships. The prime areas are:

During the developmental stages to ensure “Normal” developmental occurs it is essential that there is a ‘circle of security’. This ‘circle of security’ provides a secure base for children and allowing a safe heaven. (In) the absence of this ‘circle of security’ it is often accompanied by different forms of abuse/maltreatment and neglect (adversities). Evidently there are five types of abuse/neglect: physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence and neglect.

The specialised curriculum sees children assessed in five key skill areas: communication; cognitive skills; environmental control technology; social and emotional wellbeing and gross and fine motor physical skills. Targets are set in each area and taught throughout the school

Early year's foundation stage must ensure that all early years framework must ensure that children learn and develop in a healthy environment. It must give students knowledge, skills and develop their habits for their good future. (Statutory Framework for the Early years Foundation Stage, 2012)

The Framework for Children’s Learning for 3 to 7-year-olds in Wales [The Framework] identifies seven areas of learning which combine to create an appropriate curriculum for the Foundation Phase to develop the skills

The Framework for Children’s Learning for 3 to 7-year-olds in Wales [The Framework] identifies seven areas of learning which combine to create an appropriate curriculum for the Foundation Phase to develop the skills necessary for the children to be able to

Social, emotional and moral development. Learning involves more than cognitive development. Children gradually build a sense of self-identity and self-esteem. Drawing on

At the end of this stage the teacher will then assess each child according to a set of early learning goals (ELG’S). These goals are formulated in relation to the seven main focus areas; the assessments are then used to create a Foundation Stage profile for every individual (DfE, 2014a). The Foundation Stage profile helps to give an indication of the pupils progress in relation to the set ELG’S; it clarifies whether each child is expected to reach the goals, exceed them or not reach them. It also includes a small commentary on the child, including their skills and abilities (DfE, 2014a); this ultimately helps Year 1 teachers plan effective lessons that meet the curriculum needs of all pupils (DfE, 2015a). It has been suggested that the foundation stage profile is important in supporting and ensuring a smooth transition from reception to year one (DfE,

beyond, variation in development that may occur, and how best way to support children’s learning and development during these years.

The Foundation Phase curriculum was created and planned to be a progressive framework which takes place over the first four years of a child’s education (3-7 year olds). The Framework for Children’s Learning for 3 to 7-year olds in Wales (“The Framework”) aims to meet the wide range of needs of the children across the Foundation Phase by providing them with the opportunity to develop a large range of skills which they will be able to use for future learning and apply to their everyday life. The curriculums main focus is the holistic development of the child and the aim to build upon their past learning experiences, skills and knowledge. The Framework sets out 7 key areas of learning which include: “Personal and Social Development, Well-Being and Cultural Diversity”, Language, Literacy and Communication Skills”, “Mathematical Development”, “Welsh Language Development”, “Knowledge and Understanding of the World”, “Physical Development” and “Creative Development”. These 7 areas of learning should be taught in a cross curricular way so that the children can develop all 7 of these skills/ area no matter what lesson they are having. “They should not be approached in isolation.” DCELLS (2008:14).

The Foundation Phase of the curriculum is the curriculum which has been set for children between the ages of 3 and 7. It has been based around the creativity and imagination of the child to help with meeting developmental needs of the child. In 2008 the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) decided to bring together the Early Years curriculum with the 5-7 years curriculum, which created the Framework for Children’s Learning for 3 to 7-year olds in Wales (The Framework). The Framework clearly states what all children should be taught and what outcomes should be expected from the children. The Framework also outlines the curriculum for the 7 areas of learning. “The 7 areas of learning are:

There are various areas within the teaching role that are important in order to aid children through their development. There are three key principles; Planning, Teaching and Assessment (Education Scotland, 2011).

The fourth component is plan learning experiences. This process consider seven essential learning areas. These are language, mathematics, science, technology, social science, art and physical well-being. (Ministry of Education, 1996. p. 94). For example, activities that children have some prior knowledge such as cooking or weaving at home with mum.