Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Children develop quickly in the early years and a child’s experiences between birth and age five have a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its own right. Good parenting and high quality early learning together provide the foundation children need to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) applies to children from birth to the end of the reception year. West Hill Primary School Pre-School caters for 2-4 year olds. The school’s EYFS provision is based upon four guiding principles highlighted in the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation stage (2014):

A Unique Child + Positive Relationships + Enabling Environments = Learning and Development

The EYFS is made up of seven areas of learning:

"There are seven areas of learning and development that must shape educational programmes in early years settings. All areas of learning and development are important and inter-connected. Three areas are particularly crucial for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive." (p.7 Statutory)

Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage 2014)

The prime areas are:

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Communication and Language
• Physical Development

There are also four specific areas which the three prime areas are applied to:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

These areas cannot be delivered in isolation from the others. All areas are delivered through a balance of adult led, adult guided and child initiated activities. Adults support learning and encourage independence. In each area there are Early Learning Goals (ELG) that define the expectations for most children to reach by the end of the EYFS.

We aim to provide a happy, friendly environment and to offer a varied curriculum covering the seven areas of learning. Children will have access to a wide range of resources and be cared for within a community of dedicated Professionals working alongside you - parents as partners.