At Brockmoor Primary School, we see early education as the starting point for a child’s long-term success and wellbeing. It is not simply preparation for Year 1, but a crucial stage in building confidence, language and curiosity.

Our EYFS curriculum is shaped by CUSP Early Foundations. It is carefully planned to ensure that children develop secure early knowledge, strong communication skills and a genuine interest in the world around them. Through a balance of direct teaching and purposeful play, children build early literacy and numeracy, learn to think deeply and develop socially.

We place a strong emphasis on language. Children experience high-quality books, structured storytime and clear vocabulary teaching. They are given regular opportunities to talk, listen and take part in meaningful conversations. Creativity is also central, with daily opportunities for imaginative play, music, movement and problem-solving.

We continue to refine our provision and work closely with Julie Sherrington, an EYFS specialist, to strengthen our curriculum and practice. We also use Tapestry as a digital learning journal, allowing parents to see and celebrate their child’s progress as it happens.

Our aim is that every child leaves the Early Years confident, capable and ready for Key Stage 1.

The CUSP Early Foundations Framework

Our EYFS curriculum is built around three key elements.

1. Foundational Knowledge

Children are taught clearly defined knowledge and skills across the year. Early literacy, numeracy and understanding of the world are developed through a combination of explicit teaching and well-planned play. Learning is sequenced carefully so that knowledge builds over time.

2. Opportunities and Experiences

Alongside direct teaching, children take part in guided activities and continuous provision. They are encouraged to explore, test ideas and learn through hands-on experiences. Practical activities help them make sense of new concepts and deepen understanding.

3. Structured Storytime

Storytime is central to our approach. We follow a carefully chosen literature spine of core texts. Vocabulary is taught explicitly and revisited regularly. Through discussion, role-play and retelling stories, children develop fluency, comprehension and confidence in speaking.

This framework ensures that learning is planned, purposeful and responsive to children’s needs.

Areas of Learning in EYFS

Personal, Social and Emotional Development

Children learn to manage their feelings, build resilience and develop positive relationships. They practise turn-taking, listening and respectful communication. They also begin to understand friendship, diversity and their role within a community.

Communication and Language

Daily story sessions strengthen listening and understanding. Vocabulary is taught directly and revisited across different areas of learning. Drama, role-play and structured talk help children grow in confidence. We use the Wellcomm language assessment to monitor and support early speech and communication.

Physical Development

Children develop gross motor skills through outdoor play, movement and balance activities. Fine motor skills are strengthened through mark-making, pencil control and practical tasks. Our PE coaches provide additional physical literacy sessions, and targeted support is available for children who need further development in coordination and movement.

Literacy

Early reading is taught through Read Write Inc., providing a clear and systematic approach to phonics. High-quality texts introduce children to rich language and important ideas. Writing begins with mark-making and progresses towards writing names and simple sentences with meaning and purpose.

Mathematics

Our mathematics teaching follows the White Rose Maths approach. Learning is broken down into small, manageable steps to build secure understanding. Children develop confidence in counting, number recognition and early problem-solving. Mathematical language is taught clearly, and practical resources are used to support learning.

We also use movement and outdoor activities to reinforce mathematical ideas. STEM-based exploration encourages children to investigate, solve problems and apply their understanding in practical contexts.

Understanding the World

Children explore their local area, seasonal changes and basic geographical ideas. They are encouraged to ask questions about nature, science and technology. Cultural traditions and celebrations are introduced through meaningful experiences, helping children develop awareness and respect for others.

Expressive Arts and Design

Through art, music, dance and role-play, children develop creativity and self-expression. They experiment with colour, texture and materials, take part in performances and use storytelling to extend their imagination.

This approach ensures learning is broad, balanced and connected.

The Structure of Learning in EYFS

Each learning experience follows a clear sequence:

1. Linking to previous learning and experiences.

2. Introducing a high-quality text or engaging starting point.

3. Explicit teaching of key knowledge or skills.

4. Opportunities to apply learning through play and practical activities.

5. Structured storytime to reinforce language and understanding.

6. Time for review, discussion and reflection.

This structure provides consistency while remaining flexible enough to respond to children’s interests and development.

Learning in Action

Children take part in a wide range of experiences, including:

• Creative play through painting, modelling and construction.

• Outdoor learning that encourages exploration and physical activity.

• Targeted language support through Wellcomm interventions.

• Active learning sessions that link movement with literacy and numeracy.

• Role-play, storytelling and music-making.

• Exploring the local community to understand where they live.

These experiences help children develop independence, confidence and a positive attitude to learning.

For further information, including curriculum documents, long-term planning and guidance on supporting learning at home through Tapestry, please contact our Curriculum Lead, Tom Amphlett, at info@brockmoor.dudley.sch.uk.