EYFS (Nursery & Reception)

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Carleton House Preparatory School 

At Carleton House Preparatory School, our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides a vibrant and nurturing environment for our youngest learners in Nursery and Reception. We are dedicated to creating an atmosphere where curiosity is sparked, and a love for learning is fostered right from the start. 

Curriculum and Learning Environment: 

Curriculum Planning: 

Our EYFS curriculum is meticulously planned and resourced to engage and inspire young minds. It incorporates the principles of the UK EYFS Framework, focusing on the Characteristics of Effective Learning: Playing and Exploring, Active Learning, and Creating and Thinking Critically. These principles guide our approach, ensuring that children are motivated, enthusiastic, and supported in their educational journey. 

Learning Environments: 

Our Early years classrooms are equipped with high-quality resources to facilitate a rich learning experience. With small class sizes limited to a maximum of 23 pupils, each child receives personalized attention and support. Each EYFS class benefits from the expertise of both a full-time teacher and a full-time teaching assistant, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where children feel secure and valued. 

We recognise that education extends beyond academic achievement. Our goal is to develop well-rounded individuals who are confident, responsible, and capable of independent thinking. We support children in becoming successful learners through a blend of structured learning and engaging play-based activities. 

Personalised Support: 

Our highly-qualified and experienced staff play a crucial role in each child’s development. By observing and interacting with the children, our educators get to know their interests, strengths, and next steps in learning. This personalised approach allows us to tailor teaching strategies to meet each child's unique needs and support their growth effectively. 

Play-Based Learning: 

Engaging Opportunities: 

We believe in the power of play-based learning to foster a genuine love of learning. Our curriculum includes a variety of hands-on activities and interactive experiences that encourage children to explore, question, and create. This approach helps children develop essential skills in a fun and engaging way. 

Settling In and Confidence Building: 

Our EYFS team works closely with each child to help them settle into school life and establish routines. By creating a supportive and nurturing environment, we help children build confidence and resilience, setting a solid foundation for their future learning journey. 

Parental Partnership: 
We value the partnership between parents and the school in supporting each child's development. We offer various opportunities for parental involvement, including stay-and-play visits, transition meetings, and joining us on local walks. These activities help parents to actively engage in their child’s early education, facilitating a smooth transition into school and reinforcing the home-school connection. 

At Carleton House, we are committed to providing an enriching Early Years experience that supports the academic, social, and emotional development of every child. Through a combination of engaging play-based activities, high-quality resources, and the attentive care of our small class sizes, full-time teachers, and teaching assistants, we aim to inspire a lifelong love of learning and ensure that each child achieves their full potential within our close-knit school community.