In Early Years, children begin to develop the essential skills and knowledge that form the foundations for all future learning. Through a balance of play-based learning, adult-led activities and meaningful experiences, children grow in confidence in speaking, listening, early reading, writing and mathematics, while also developing their understanding of the world around them.

Communication and language are at the heart of everything we do. We place a strong focus on developing children’s vocabulary so that they can express their ideas, talk about their play, and make sense of their experiences. Through conversation, storytelling and high-quality texts, children learn new words and begin to use them with confidence.

Children explore a wide range of exciting themes based on their interests and the world around them, such as stories and traditional tales, animals and habitats, seasons, growing and change, and people who help us. These experiences support learning across all areas of the EYFS curriculum, including Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Physical Development, and Expressive Arts and Design.

You can support your child at home by talking together about their day, sharing stories, and exploring new words. Asking simple questions, encouraging conversation and revisiting what they have learned helps to build confidence, strengthen language skills and deepen understanding in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

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At Phoenix, we believe that learning in Early Years happens everywhere — both inside and outside the classroom. In EYFS, children develop confidence, independence, resilience and curiosity through a wide range of play-based and meaningful experiences.

Throughout the year, children will have opportunities to:

• Take part in visits and welcome visitors into school to support their understanding of the world
• Develop confidence through talk, storytelling, role play and sharing ideas
• Learn through play, exploration and hands-on experiences
• Explore our Phoenix values through stories, circle times and daily interactions
• Build friendships, resilience and independence as they settle into school life

Children also take part in:

• Daily outdoor play and physical development opportunities
• Music, singing and creative arts activities
• Wellbeing support and nurture sessions
• OPAL play to encourage imagination and active play
• Special themed weeks, celebrations and enrichment days

As part of our wider experiences, children will enjoy a range of activities linked to their learning and interests, such as:

• Visits to Imagine That! to explore creative, hands-on learning through play
• Trips to Lumiere Play Centre, Liverpool, supporting physical development, confidence and social skills
• Storytelling experiences, including visits to Storybarn, to develop a love of books
• Visits to the local library to encourage early reading for pleasure
• Outdoor learning, including simple gardening and exploring nature

These experiences help bring learning to life, support all areas of the EYFS curriculum, and create meaningful, memorable moments as children learn and grow.