EYFS

EYFS Curriculum 

At Benchill Primary School, our EYFS curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide a nurturing, stimulating, and inclusive environment, where every child is recognised as a unique individual with the potential to thrive. Grounded in the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, our intent is to build strong foundations for lifelong learning and well-being, with a particular emphasis on communication, resilience, and curiosity.

We understand the importance of responding to the context of our local community in Benchill, and our curriculum reflects this by prioritising early language acquisition, personal and social development and emotional literacy. Many of our children begin their learning journey with lower starting points and we are committed to closing the gap through high-quality teaching, a language-rich environment and targeted support.

Our Curriculum Intent Is to:

• Conquer Challenges: We empower children to become confident, resilient learners who are unafraid to take risks, learn from mistakes, and keep trying. Through an environment rich in exploration and challenge, we foster independence, perseverance, and a “can-do” attitude that prepares children for future learning.
• Succeed Together: We believe that learning is a shared journey and relationships are the centre of out EYFS Provision. Our curriculum promotes collaboration, cooperation, and kindness, helping children to build strong relationships and work effectively with others. Adults model respectful communication and teamwork, creating a classroom culture where every child feels supported and valued.
• Celebrate Difference: We embrace the uniqueness of every child and family in our school community. Our curriculum reflects and respects the rich diversity of Benchill, enabling children to learn about themselves and others, and to grow in empathy, respect, and a strong sense of identity and belonging.

Characteristics of Effective Learning

We promote the Characteristics of Effective Learning as the golden threads that run through all learning and development in Early Years:

• Playing and Exploring – Children are encouraged to investigate and experience things, take risks, and engage in open-ended play. This fosters confidence and a willingness to 'have a go'.
• Active Learning – We support children in maintaining focus and persistence, celebrating effort and progress. Children learn how to enjoy achievements and recover from setbacks.
• Creating and Thinking Critically – Children are taught and encouraged to make connections, solve problems, and reflect on their thinking. This underpins our approach to inquiry-based learning.