At Read Academy, the EYFS curriculum provides children with a strong foundation for future learning through a carefully planned, child-centred approach that aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework and prepares children to achieve the Early Learning Goals (ELGs).

Our EYFS curriculum is underpinned by the same ten Big Ideas that shape the wider school curriculum, ensuring continuity and coherence as children transition into Key Stage 1. These Big Ideas are: Humankind, Processes, Creativity, Investigation, Materials, Nature, Place & Space, Comparison, Significance and Change. These Big Ideas are introduced in developmentally appropriate ways, enabling children to explore concepts through play, investigation, creativity and real-life experiences.

Provision in the EYFS is strongly influenced by key principles of Montessori practice, particularly independence, purposeful choice, hands-on learning and respect for each child’s individual pace of development. Carefully prepared environments, both indoors and outdoors, encourage children to explore, practise skills and develop concentration, confidence and self-regulation.

Learning is organised through a balance of adult-led and child-initiated experiences, with practitioners skilfully supporting children to develop knowledge, language and skills across all seven areas of learning. High-quality interactions, modelling and questioning are used to extend thinking and deepen understanding.

Outdoor learning and engagement with nature are integral to EYFS provision. Children regularly access outdoor environments and take part in planned nature-based experiences that encourage exploration, movement, curiosity and care for the natural world. These experiences support physical development, communication and language, understanding of the world and emotional wellbeing, while providing meaningful opportunities for children to apply and extend their learning.

Our EYFS curriculum reflects the values and ethos of Read Academy, informed by Islamic principles, promoting kindness, respect, responsibility and a strong sense of belonging. Children are supported to develop positive relationships, independence and a love of learning within a nurturing and inclusive environment.

The impact of the EYFS curriculum is measured through ongoing observation, assessment and reflection, ensuring that children make strong progress from their starting points and are well prepared for the transition into Key Stage 1.

Impact is evaluated through:
- Baseline assessments on entry to the EYFS; 
- Ongoing formative assessment through high-quality observations of children’s learning and play, recorded and monitored using Tapestry;
- Tracking progress against the Early Learning Goals and Development Matters guidance;
- Regular review of individual children’s next steps to inform planning and provision;
- Moderation of assessments within school and with external partners, where appropriate; 
- Pupil voice captured through discussion, play-based interactions and learning reflections;
- Parental contributions and feedback through learning journals, meetings and workshops; 
-Monitoring of indoor and outdoor provision to ensure it supports high-quality learning experiences;
- Analysis of end-of-year outcomes, including the proportion of children achieving a Good Level of Development.

These processes ensure that children leave the EYFS as confident, curious and capable learners who are well equipped with the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to succeed in the next stage of their education.

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