Child Led Learning

Early years foundation stage (EYFS)

At Alston Preschool we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which covers children’s learning and development from birth to 5 years. The EYFS is designed to deliver improved outcomes for all children across every area of learning and development. Effective practice in the early years is based on 4 key principles:

  • Learning and Development; recognising that children learn and develop in different ways and at different speeds. And that all areas of learning and development are interconnected and equally important.
  • Enabling Environments; recognising that the environment plays a key role in supporting and extending children’s development and learning.
  • Positive Relationship; recognising that respect, partnerships with parents, supporting learning and strong key persons play an instrumental role in helping children be strong and independent.
  • A Unique Child; recognising that every child is a competent learner.

Tapestry-
Tapestry is an online learning journal that lets parents see how their children are progressing through their time at Alston Preschool. It includes statements from our early years practitioners and has a section where parents can add their own comments and photos from home. Tapestry is fully secure and Early Years Foundation Stage approved. Tapestry also creates a two way communication between our staff and parents and carers.

In the moment planning-
At Alston Preschool we are always researching new ideas and practices. We believe that each child learns in a unique way, to facilitate each individual we do ‘In the moment planning’. Planning in the moment is all about seizing the moment for children to progress. Our staff will use the children’s curiosity and interest to inform planning and assess learning through observing their play.

Outdoor play

At Alston Pre-school we are very lucky to have two brilliant outdoor areas for the children to explore. Our outdoor resources enable our children to develop in all areas of learning.

Our staff value the importance of outdoor play and learning, we see our outdoor areas as an extension of the indoor learning environment, the children love looking for fairies, making mud pies and hunting for bugs. Whatever the weather we always have fun.

“Getting children outside benefits them physically and allows the brain to recharge which should produce greater results academically, socially and cognitively”