Welcome to our EYFS!

The overview below offers a glimpse into what life in the EYFS at Yox Valley looks like. There are many more exciting activities, discoveries and learning opportunities for your child to enjoy as they begin their journey with us!

Throughout the academic year, our learning is based around the same topics explored across the school. This approach helps children build on their knowledge and understanding as they progress through Yox Valley. Alongside these topics, we take into account the children’s individual interests and ideas to create exciting learning experiences that reflect their needs and encourage curiosity.

Children are given plenty of opportunities throughout the day to explore, experiment and develop their understanding through independent play. A range of considerately chosen activities and resources are available to support children in their learning across the different areas of development. Through these experiences, children can develop important skills, such as sharing and working with others, as well as recognising numbers and putting them in the correct order.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), we use the Development Matters framework to guide children’s learning and development. Our aim is to support every child in making progress towards achieving their Early Learning Goals (ELGs) by the end of Reception.

Alongside opportunities for independent exploration, children also take part in whole-class teaching sessions and small-group activities supported by an adult. Phonics is taught daily using ELS, helping children learn new sounds and practise those they have already been introduced to. Children also participate in daily maths and literacy sessions, where they develop their understanding of key concepts. Small-group activities provide further opportunities for children to practise these skills and use their learning in practical, meaningful ways.

Elm is our Early Years class, for children in Reception and Nursery.