Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

At Horris Hill School, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)—the statutory framework that sets the standards for learning, development, and care for children aged 0 to 5 years.

This nationally recognised framework ensures that all early years providers, including we, as an independent school, deliver a high-quality foundation for every child’s future learning and development.

The EYFS Framework (click here to view)

The EYFS framework has three core aims:

  • Sets the standards that all early years providers must meet to ensure that children learn and develop well
  • Ensures that children are kept healthy and safe
  • Ensures that children have the knowledge and skills they need to start school

The EYFS places strong emphasis on promoting teaching and learning that supports children’s 'school readiness'. It lays the groundwork for a broad and balanced early education, enabling young learners to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally—giving them the best possible start as they progress through prep school and beyond.

Two Horris Hill Reception pupils in the Reception classroom

Areas of learning and development

There are seven areas of learning and development within the EYFS, each of which plays a vital role in shaping a child’s early education. These areas are interconnected, though three are seen as particularly crucial for establishing a solid foundation:

  • Communication and language
  • Physical development
  • Personal, social and emotional development

These are complemented by four specific areas of learning that help strengthen a child’s wider understanding of the world around them:

  • Literacy
  • Mathematics
  • Understanding the world
  • Expressive arts and design

Click here to find out more about the Lower School curriculum.

Find Out More

As an independent school, we are proud to offer a nurturing and enriching Early Years experience that supports every child’s individual journey. If you have any questions about our approach, or would like to discuss your child’s abilities, interests, or specific needs, our Admissions Team would be very happy to help. Click here to get in touch.

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