Curriculum

''Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Children develop quickly in the early years, and experiences between birth and age five have a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe, and happy childhood is important in its own right. Good parenting and high-quality early learning together provide the foundation children need to make the most of their abilities and talents.'' (EYFS, p.5)

​

At Bunyan Preschool, our curriculum is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), a framework for children from birth to five years that is delivered in all Ofsted-registered early years settings. We use the EYFS to enrich and broaden children’s experiences through a balance of exciting play opportunities and adult-guided activities, all planned in response to the needs of our children, families, and community.

​

Our Guiding Principles

Our practice is shaped by four guiding principles:

• Every child is a unique learner – children are constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident, and self-assured.

• Positive relationships matter – children learn to be strong and independent through supportive relationships.

• Enabling environments – children learn and develop well when their experiences respond to their individual needs, with strong partnerships between practitioners and parents/carers.

• Children develop at different rates – every child learns in their own way and at their own pace.
  (EYFS, p.6)

Through this curriculum, our children develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviours that equip them for the next stage of their learning in school.

​

Areas of Learning

Your child’s learning will link to the seven areas of learning set out in the EYFS. All activities are planned to match each child’s stage of development and understanding.

Personal, Social and Emotional Development

• Self-confidence and self-awareness

• Managing feelings and behaviour

• Making relationships
  We help children develop a positive sense of themselves and others, form respectful relationships, manage feelings, understand group behaviour, and gain confidence in their abilities.

Communication and Language

• Listening, attention and understanding

• Speaking
  Children experience a rich language environment, including daily stories, songs, and rhymes. They develop confidence in expressing themselves and communicating in a variety of situations.

Physical Development

• Gross Motor Skills

• Fine Motor Skills
  Children are encouraged to be active and interactive, developing coordination, control, and movement. We also support children in understanding the importance of physical activity and making healthy food choices.

Literacy

• Comprehension

• Word Reading

• Writing
  We encourage children to link sounds and letters and begin to read and write. Children have access to a wide range of books, poems, and other materials to spark their interest.

Mathematics

• Numbers

• Numerical Patterns
  Children develop skills in counting, using numbers, solving simple addition and subtraction problems, and exploring shapes, spaces, and measures.

Understanding the World

• Past and Present

• People, Culture and Communities

• The Natural World
  Children explore and make sense of their world through observation, technology, and learning about people, places, and the environment.

Expressive Arts and Design

• Creating with Materials

• Being Imaginative and Expressive
  Children explore a wide range of media and materials and are encouraged to share their ideas and feelings through art, music, movement, dance, role-play, and design and technology.

How We Teach

All members of our staff are continually:

• Encouraging children to learn through play and follow their interests

• Planning activities suitable for children aged 2–5

• Catering to different learning styles and individual needs

• Using observations and assessments to inform planning

• Providing a balance of adult-led and child-initiated activities

• Offering a wide variety of practical experiences indoors and outdoors

• Collaborating with parents to meet each child’s needs

• Valuing diversity and promoting positive images of all groups in society

• Offering outings and inviting visitors to extend learning

• Employing qualified, enthusiastic staff who understand how children learn

Our curriculum encourages children to develop positive attitudes about themselves and others, to empathise with others, and to begin developing critical thinking skills.

​

At Bunyan Preschool, our curriculum ensures that every child has the best start in life. We nurture confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning in a safe, happy, and stimulating environment, preparing children for the next stage of their learning journey.