EYFS Curriculum

Intent 

 At St Thomas More Catholic Primary School, we believe that every child is a unique and valued individual, created in the image of God. Our EYFS curriculum is designed to provide a broad and balanced learning experience that nurtures the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Through the foundation of Gospel Values, we ensure children develop a deep sense of Kindness, Compassion, and Inclusion, alongside the knowledge and skills needed for lifelong learning.

We aim to:

• Provide a broad and balanced curriculum that meets the needs of all children, ensuring they flourish in all areas of learning.
• Promote the prime and specific areas of learning as outlined in the EYFS framework, supporting holistic development.
• Support children in becoming confident, resilient, and independent learners, fostering Perseverance and Resilience to overcome challenges.
• Develop strong communication and language skills, enhancing emotional and social well-being, rooted in the values of Honesty, Truth, and Integrity.
• Foster a lifelong love of reading and storytelling, nurturing imagination, curiosity, and a love for language.
• Ensure learning is engaging, play-based, and incorporates children's interests, valuing Simplicity and Humility in exploration and discovery.
• Work in partnership with parents, carers, and the wider community to create a nurturing, inclusive, and faith-filled learning environment.

Implementation 

 Our EYFS curriculum is delivered through a balance of child-initiated and adult-led learning, with a strong focus on play-based experiences and high quality provision that develops children’s curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Rooted in Gospel Values, we provide a safe and loving environment where every child can thrive, belong, and grow. 

At St Thomas More School we:

• Provide a Nurturing and Inclusive Environment – Through Kindness, Compassion, and Inclusion, we ensure that all children, regardless of background or ability, feel valued, supported, and able to achieve their potential.
• Use a balance of Child-Centred, Adult-Led and Child-Initiated Learning – Learning is engaging, hands-on, and guided by children’s interests, encouraging them to explore and develop their skills naturally.
• Promote Communication and Language – Through storytelling, songs, discussions, and high-quality interactions, we nurture children's ability to express themselves confidently and build meaningful relationships.
• Encourage Resilience and Independence – Children are supported to develop perseverance, problem-solving skills, and confidence, underpinned by Hope and Resilience.
• Foster a Love for Reading – We immerse children in rich literacy experiences, using stories and books to inspire learning and instil a lifelong passion for reading.
• Model and Teach Gospel Values – Through daily interactions, prayer, reflection, and real-life experiences, we encourage children to embody values such as Forgiveness, Justice, and Reconciliation in their relationships and decision-making.
• Work in Partnership with Parents and the Community – We work closely with families to ensure children receive consistent care, support, and encouragement in their learning journey.

Impact 

The impact of our EYFS provision is seen in the confident, compassionate, and capable learners who transition into Key Stage 1 with strong foundational skills and deep-rooted values.

• Academic and Personal Growth – Children make strong progress across all areas of learning, particularly in communication, social skills, and emotional development.
• Confident, Independent Learners – Children demonstrate Resilience, Perseverance, and Problem-Solving Skills, preparing them for future challenges.
• Living Gospel Values – Children show Kindness, Generosity, and Justice, forming meaningful friendships and treating others with respect and empathy.
• Love for Learning and Reading – Children develop curiosity and creativity, with a strong foundation in literacy and a passion for storytelling.
• School Readiness – Children leave EYFS with the skills, confidence, and moral grounding to transition smoothly into Key Stage 1, carrying with them the values of Love, Honesty, and Inclusion.

By embedding Gospel Values into every aspect of our EYFS curriculum, we ensure that children not only grow in knowledge but also develop a deep sense of faith, purpose, and love for others.

Our curriculum has been shaped by numerous significant influences, each of which adds great value.

 Our personalised curriculum is designed to nurture each child's unique potential, fostering a love for learning through engaging, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate experiences. Rooted in the Characteristics of Effective Learning and the four overarching EYFS principles, our approach ensures that every child thrives in a supportive and enriching environment.

Progression through the Areas of Learning - Reception

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