Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
At Tardebigge CE First School, we believe that the early years are a magical time of discovery, growth, and joy. Our EYFS curriculum is built around our vision to help every child grow and shine spiritually, academically, and personally. Through exciting, hands-on learning and our carefully planned Discovery Time, children are encouraged to follow their interests, ask questions, and explore the world around them in a way that feels natural and full of wonder.
Our Christian values are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s learning to share with a friend, trying again when something feels tricky, or simply finding joy in the everyday moments, our children are gently guided to become kind, thoughtful and confident learners. Every day in our EYFS is a chance for children to build friendships, grow their independence, and take those first steps on their journey as curious, capable, and happy members of our Tardebigge Family.
As well as following a structured approach to synthetic phonics through the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds approach, and a maths curriculum based upon the White Rose Scheme, there are many opportunities for children to participate in a very active timetable. Such activities may include music, PE lessons and free flow opportunities to explore and learn in our fabulous outdoor spaces. Depending on the theme or topic there are a variety of trips throughout the school year. The children have also enjoyed visits from people who help us in our community.
This link provides you with some information about the Phonics approach that we use:
Last year, we had an EYFS Review which was heralded as showing some excellent practice and a well-thought out learning environment. We are proud to say, that as a result, we had a number of other schools visit our EYFS last year to see our good practice in action.
We would like to share a poem which we feel encapsulates our EYFS curriculum:
Just Playing - Anita Wadley
When I’m building in the block room, please don’t say I’m "just playing"
For, you see, I’m learning as I play; about balance and shapes.
Who knows, I maybe an architect someday.
When I’m getting all dressed up, setting the table, caring for the babies,
Don’t get the idea I’m just playing.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I may be a mother or a father someday.
When you see me up to my elbows in paint, or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping clay,
Please don’t let me hear you say “she’s just playing.”
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I’m expressing myself and being creative. I may be an artist or an inventor someday.
When you see me “reading” to an imaginary audience,
please don’t laugh and think I’m just playing.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I may be a teacher someday.
When you see me combing the bushes for bugs, Or packing my pockets with choice things I find, don’t pass it off as JUST play.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I may be a scientist someday.
When you see me engrossed in a puzzle, or some plaything at my school,
Please don’t feel the time is wasted in play.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I’m learning to solve problems and concentrate. I may be in business someday.
When you see me cooking or tasting foods,
Please don’t think that because I enjoy it, it is just play.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I’m learning to follow directions and see differences. I may be a cook someday.
When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, and move my body,
Please don’t say I’m JUST playing.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I’m learning how my body works. I may be a doctor, nurse or athlete someday.
When you ask me what I did at school today, and I say, “I just played”,
Please don’t misunderstand me.
For, you see, I’m learning as I play.
I’m learning to enjoy and be successful in work. I’m preparing for tomorrow.
Today, I’m a child and my work is play.