The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage

The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets the standards that all early years providers must meet to ensure children’s development, care, and learning needs are effectively met.

Early years providers in England, who offer care and learning for children from birth to the end of Reception class, must adhere to the EYFS Statutory Framework. This framework plays a critical role in preparing your child for school and future learning successes. From birth to five years old, children should experience early years education that is happy, active, exciting, fun, and secure. It ensures that their development is supported in a nurturing environment, giving them the best foundation for later learning.

In September 2021, a revised version of the EYFS came into force, and it introduced several key reforms to further support children's development and learning:

Reducing Practitioner/Teacher Workload: The revisions aim to reduce unnecessary paperwork and administrative tasks, giving practitioners more time to focus on quality interactions with children.
Improving Outcomes for All Children: A key objective is to improve outcomes for every child, especially those who may face disadvantages. This includes addressing and reducing gaps in attainment.
Professional Development and Workforce Knowledge: The revised framework emphasises the importance of continuous professional development for early years educators. Practitioners are encouraged to use their knowledge to inform assessments and avoid unnecessary checklists. Assessments are now more reflective of individual children’s progress, with formal steps used only when necessary.
Alignment with Year 1 Curriculum: Early learning goals are now clearer and more closely aligned with the Year 1 curriculum, ensuring a smoother transition to primary education.

The EYFS framework ensures that children are supported in their growth and development through a mix of structured activities and play-based learning.

Further Reading/Links

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Banks Bee

Banks Bee is a whole-school reward initiative encouraging children to: Bee Committed; Bee Involved; Bee Loyal; Bee Bold and BE THE BEST THEY CAN BEE!

We are proud to be a school which values community and involvement. Banks Bee is here to keep the Greenbank Family together!

As our children progress through the school, they will be rewarded for their participation and endeavour through Banks Bee’s reward scheme – comprising of bronze, silver, gold and even platinum awards.