At St Stephen's Tockholes, we are always keen to be at the forefront of any changes in education and we are excited to be an ‘early adoption’ school before the statutory implementation in September 2021. Therefore our curriculum is designed to follow the EYFS Statutory Framework curriculum 2020 and is further guided by a document called ‘Development Matters’ that sets out the learning, development and assessment requirements for all children until the end of their reception year. All early years practitioners are required to pursue daily rich activities to support each child’s educational development across seven areas of learning. The EYFS framework has never prescribed a particular teaching approach and the new framework holds true to this value.  Our philosophy of early year’s education remains the same with play and well-being at the heart of everything we do.  Our reception children are given every opportunity to; 'live, love, laugh and learn if the light of Christ.' 

Our vision is that each child becomes, 'the best they can be' and there are 4 key principles that underpin our practice in the EYFS:

A Unique Child
We recognise that all children are different. We identify and celebrate their strengths and support their areas for development.

Positive Relationships
Our pupils interact well with each other and with the adults in the school. We encourage parents to be involved with their child’s education.

Enabling Environments
Our indoor and outdoor areas encourage exploration, investigation, and independent learning. Our displays and resources are well maintained and reflect current learning.

Learning and Development
Pupils achieve well and make good progress from their starting points. Learning is playful, practical, and purposeful and builds upon prior attainment. Our children enjoy coming to school.

What to Expect When 

Development Matters Revised 2023

Birth to 5 Matters