EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE

We encourage the children to make choices and to become resilient, to ensure that every child makes as much progress as possible.

At International School Andalucía we understand the importance of children leading their own learning and learning through structured play. Our Foundation Stage children will have access to a number of learning areas both indoors and outdoors.

The curriculum followed in EYFS is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum in England. From Foundation the children will have the opportunity to take part in weekly PE and swimming lessons (in summer)  with specialist teachers.

The first years of school leave an indelible mark on the pupils, so it is important to structure this academic period and to be very clear about what the objectives are going to be.

The Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum that we develop at International School Andalucía focuses on several main areas, reinforced by four secondary areas. The result is pupils who are committed to their own learning on a lifelong basis and who also have advanced skills that go beyond basic teaching skills.

The structure of the EYFS from the basic areas of learning

The first years at our international school are of great importance. Our aim is to transmit three general areas of knowledge, supported by four more specific areas.

Personal, social and emotional development

The personal, social and emotional development of the children is one of the main areas of our approach. Self-exploration, self-confidence and trust in others, as well as the ability to regulate their emotions are encouraged. Children participate in activities that promote teamwork, conflict resolution and the development of social skills, such as listening to others and expressing their own needs. They are encouraged to share, cooperate and develop a basic understanding of social and cultural norms.

Physical development

Physical development is another key component of the curriculum during the EYFS period. It focuses on the development of gross and fine motor skills through physical activities and games. Children have the opportunity to participate in activities that promote balance, coordination, muscle strength and manual dexterity. They are encouraged to explore their physical environment and participate in outdoor games that promote an active and healthy lifestyle.

Communication and language development

Communication and language development is fundamental at this age. We focus on developing listening, speaking and language comprehension skills, including learning English already during these early years. Children participate in activities that encourage verbal and non-verbal communication, use of vocabulary, storytelling and understanding of simple instructions.

Language use is promoted in a wide variety of contexts, including imaginative play, shared reading and interactions with others. Through this process, students begin to become accustomed to the rhythm and pronunciation of English, while assimilating their own mother tongue.

Specific learning areas during the EYFS

In order to develop the above attitudes, we insist on learning from specific areas.

Literacy development

During the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), we focus on the development of reading and writing skills in a progressive and age-appropriate manner. Activities that promote phonological awareness, such as identifying sounds and rhymes, are introduced, with an emphasis on learning English from this early stage. In addition, letter formation and the writing of simple words are practised, using interactive and playful methods that encourage children’s interest and active participation.

Knowledge of the environment

Environmental literacy covers a wide range of topics, from exploring the natural world to understanding how society works. During the EYFS, children participate in activities that allow them to investigate and discover their physical and social environment. Exploration of nature, learning about different cultures and traditions, as well as understanding basic concepts about time, space and everyday life are promoted.

Mathematics

In the EYFS, children are introduced to basic mathematical concepts in a practical and experiential way. It focuses on developing understanding of numbers, shapes, space and measurement through activities such as counting, sorting objects, recognising patterns and solving simple problems. Mathematical play and the use of manipulative materials are encouraged to help children visualise and understand abstract concepts.

Expressive art and design

Expressive art and design are important areas for fostering children’s creativity and self-expression during the EYFS. They are encouraged to explore a wide variety of artistic media, such as painting, drawing, modelling and collage. Experimentation with different materials and techniques to create original works of art is encouraged. In addition, they are given the opportunity to explore design and construction, through activities involving the construction and manipulation of objects.

Early Years Foundation Stage in the context of the British curriculum

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the initial stage of the British curriculum, designed for children from birth to five years of age. This crucial period focuses on providing children with early learning experiences that lay the foundations for their personal, social, emotional and academic development. During the EYFS, a holistic approach is promoted that recognises the importance of active and creative play, exploration and learning.

A key feature of the EYFS is the adaptation of a balanced curriculum, covering the seven areas of learning discussed above. Through activities tailored to their interests and abilities, children explore and discover the world around them, developing key skills that will prepare them for a smooth transition to the next stage of education.