Phase 1 Lead: Mrs Dearing
Welcome to the Early Years Foundation Stage at Godfrey Ermen Primary School.
At Godfrey Ermen Primary School, our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides a supportive, inclusive and nurturing environment where every child is valued, respected and encouraged to flourish. We believe that children’s early experiences shape their lifelong love of learning, and we are committed to giving every child the strongest possible start.
Our Vision and Ethos
Our EYFS practice reflects our whole-school values and is rooted in encouragement. We celebrate effort, curiosity and perseverance, helping children to see themselves as confident and capable learners. Through warm, positive relationships and meaningful interactions, children feel safe to take risks, try new challenges and develop confidence in their own abilities.
A Strong Foundation for Learning
We prioritise the development of the fundamental skills that underpin all future learning:
Alongside these, we intentionally develop children’s executive function skills, including attention, self-regulation, working memory and flexible thinking. These skills support children to manage emotions, follow routines, solve problems and make thoughtful choices as increasingly independent learners.
Learning Through Play
Children in our EYFS learn through a carefully planned balance of child-initiated play and adult-led experiences. Our learning environments are thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity, exploration and creativity, allowing children to investigate ideas, make choices and follow their own interests while being supported and guided by skilled adults.
Independence and Resilience
We actively promote independence and resilience from the very start of school life. Children are encouraged to:
This approach helps children to build confidence, self-belief and a positive attitude towards learning.
Every Child is Unique
We recognise that every child is unique. Our teaching is responsive and adaptive, shaped by careful observation and a deep understanding of each child’s starting point, interests and individual needs. We value children’s prior knowledge and experiences, using these as the foundation for meaningful, engaging and inclusive learning.
A Nurturing and Inclusive Environment
A nurturing approach sits at the heart of our EYFS. Strong, trusting relationships with adults help children to feel safe, secure and emotionally supported. We proudly celebrate diversity and ensure our EYFS reflects the cultures, backgrounds and experiences of our school community. Children are taught kindness, empathy and respect, learning that differences should be valued and celebrated.
Working in Partnership with Families
We value the vital role families play as children’s first educators. By working closely with parents and carers, we ensure that children feel supported, understood and confident, both at home and at school. Strong partnerships help us to support every child’s development effectively.
Preparing for the Future
Through our carefully planned EYFS curriculum, we support children to become confident, resilient, independent and enthusiastic learners. Our aim is that every child leaves EYFS well-prepared for the next stage of their education and for life beyond the classroom.