Policy Statement

At Twinkling Stars Early Childhood Centre, we are committed to providing a high-quality Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum that ensures all children in our care experience a broad and balanced range of learning opportunities.

Legal Framework

Our curriculum is designed and implemented following the statutory framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage 2021 as set out in the United Arab Emirates and the guidance provided by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai.

Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives of our EYFS curriculum are as follows:

• To provide a secure and nurturing environment that supports the development of each child.
• To promote the development of the whole child, focusing on their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

EYFS Curriculum Content

Our curriculum is based on the following seven areas, further divided into 3 Prime and 4 Specific areas of learning and development.

3 Prime Areas of Learning

Personal, Social, and Emotional Development

• Building positive relationships.
• Developing self-confidence and self-awareness.
• Managing feelings and behavior.

Communication and Language

• Listening and attention.
• Understanding and speaking.
• Developing vocabulary and communication skills.

Physical Development

• Moving and handling (gross and fine motor skills).
• Health and self-care.

4 Specific Areas of Learning

Literacy

• Reading: Understanding and enjoying stories, rhymes, and books.
• Writing: Developing early writing skills, mark-making, and letter recognition.

Mathematics

• Number: Understanding and using numbers, counting, and basic mathematical concepts.
• Shape, Space, and Measure: Exploring shapes, patterns, and measurements.

Understanding the World

• People and Communities: Understanding the world around them and different cultures.
• The World: Exploring the environment, nature, and the physical world.
• Technology: Engaging with technology and understanding its uses.

Expressive Arts and Design

• Exploring and Using Media and Materials: Creativity through various materials and tools.
• Being Imaginative: Using imagination in play, role-playing, and creative activities.

Assessment and Progress

Observation and Assessment

Assessment and progress tracking in the EYFS in our setting is ongoing, flexible, and responsive to individual needs for all age groups. Regular reviews, communication, and collaboration with parents are integral to the success of the assessment process to understand children’s interests and progress.

We assess against the Development Matters of EYFS for all age groups in the setting and against the Early Learning Goals at the end of the Reception.

Early Learning Goals

Broad areas of knowledge and skills that children are expected to have reached by the end of the EYFS.

The EYFS framework emphasizes a play-based approach to learning, recognizing the importance of child-initiated activities and the role of adults in supporting and extending these activities. It promotes individualized learning experiences, continuous observation, and assessment to ensure each child’s unique needs and interests will met. The involvement of parents and caregivers is also a crucial aspect of the EYFS, fostering effective partnerships in supporting children’s development.