Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
At St Mark's, we provide an ambitious, inclusive and nurturing Early Years curriculum that values every child as a unique learner. Through warm relationships, meaningful play and carefully planned experiences, we develop children's knowledge, skills and confidence.
Curriculum
Our curriculum is child-centred and rooted in children's experiences, seasonal changes, festivals, interests and Christian values. High-quality texts, stories and nursery rhymes drive learning across the seven areas of learning.
Continuous Provision and Environment
Our indoor and outdoor environments are designed to support children's interests, developmental needs and next steps. Open-ended resources encourage exploration, creativity, problem-solving and independence.
The Role of the Adult
Skilled adult interactions are central to learning. Practitioners build strong relationships, model language, extend vocabulary and support children to deepen their thinking through purposeful interactions.
Teaching and Learning
Nursery children access short adult-led sessions in phonics, mathematics and communication. Reception children participate in whole-class and focused group teaching alongside rich child-initiated learning opportunities.
Assessment
Assessment is ongoing and informed by observation, discussion and children's responses. Regular assessments help identify strengths, gaps and next steps to ensure progress.
Early Reading and Mathematics
Reading is central to the curriculum. Nursery children take part in daily phonics activities and Reception follows Unlocking Letters and Sounds. Mathematics follows the White Rose approach.
Additional Support
Targeted interventions including WellComm, Move-to-Write, BUSS and Funky Fingers support communication, physical development and early learning skills.
Parent Partnership and Transitions
Strong partnerships with parents are fostered through daily communication, ClassDojo and transition arrangements. Transitions between Nursery, Reception and Year 1 are carefully planned.
Impact
Children leave the Early Years as happy, confident and resilient learners who demonstrate kindness, respect and compassion, with secure foundations for future learning.