Early Years Foundation Stage
At Lower Farm Academy we understand that getting it right in the Early Years means getting it right for life. We believe it is every child’s right to be nurtured in a safe and stimulating environment where they are able to play and explore the world around them. Children begin developing a sense of themselves within the earliest years of their life and it is vital they are given the support and tools needed to begin this journey.
We understand that every child is unique and will develop their own interests as they grow with us and it is therefore important that we provide imaginative, hands-on and creative opportunities that engage and inspire. Children are enthused by their learning, and this creates inquisitive minds that ask questions and engage freely in their environment.
Our children are:
- Ambitious
- Resilient
- Caring
- Collaborative
- Respectful
- Confident
- Inquisitive
- Imaginative
- Creative
- Adventurous
- Friendly
- Helpful
- Courageous
- Motivated
We aim to ensure that children make strong progress towards the Learning Goals and support every child in achieving their next steps.
The early years framework is split into 7 areas of learning:
- Communication & Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social & Emotional Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Art & Design
EYFS statutory framework:
Our curriculum covers all areas of learning and is reflected in both our indoor and outdoor areas. It is designed to encourage independent, inquisitive and happy learners. The holistic approach to our curriculum, including the use of the Sonar Curriculum, maximises cross-curricular links and builds strong foundations for the future. Children are prepared for the transition into Year 1 and the flexible and fluid nature of our planning ensures that those children who are finding some areas of their learning more challenging can be effectively supported.
Provision
We aim to provide a stimulating environment where children can become independent learners and where they are encouraged to explore and experiment whilst their knowledge is extended by careful adult interaction and intervention. The adults will observe children learning and use these observations to plan next steps in each childs development.
Children have access to both indoor and outdoor learning environments that stimulating and fun. They learn in practical ways through problem solving and risk management. At Lower Farm we believe in exposing children to new experiences and providing them with the tools to navigate these experiences – we never give children the answers just the tools they need to be successful. We are very proud of our indoor and outdoor learning environments and children develop independence when accessing them.
We are currently working with the children to develop our outdoor provision and create a space that they can be proud of. Watch out for our new climbing nest, trim trail and chicken coop all coming soon!
In both Nursery and Reception children learn about a range of themes through half termly learning journeys. These are well planned journeys that start with a ‘launch’ and end with a ‘landing’. During these themes children will cover all areas of the curriculum alongside developing fundamental learning/life skills which will stay with them forever. We aim to create adults who thrive and we know it starts in the Early Years.