Areas of Learning and Development

The EYFS focuses on the prime and specific Areas of Learning and Development, these also interconnect with the Characteristics of Effective Learning as stated in the EYFS development matters;

The prime areas begin to develop quickly in response to relationships and experiences, and run through and support learning in all other areas. The prime areas continue to be fundamental throughout the EYFS.

and

The specific areas include essential skills and knowledge. They grow out of the prime areas, and provide important contexts for learning. 

Prime areas are fundamental, work together, and move through to support development in all other areas.

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Communication and Language
• Physical Development

Specific areas include essential skills and knowledge for children to participate successfully in society.

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

The three characteristics of effective teaching and learning are:

• Playing and exploring – children investigate and experience things, and ‘have a go’;
• Active learning – children concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties, and enjoy achievements;
• Creating and thinking critically – children have and develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and develop strategies for doing things.

For Children aged 6 months – 3 years we use the Prime Areas of Learning and Development

For children aged 3 - 4 years we use the Prime Areas and the Specific Areas of Learning and Development

Please click here for more information about the Areas of Learning and Development.

Click to view Parents’ Guide to the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework