EYFS

At The Vale Academy, we champion every pupil to achieve the following by the end of their primary journey:

• Show valour – being brave, resilient and confident to truly be themselves.
• Be aspirational – approaching learning with curiosity and a desire to achieve their best.
• Be a leader – acting with integrity, taking responsibility and contributing positively to others.
• Strive for excellence – developing strong academic foundations alongside the character, confidence and social skills to flourish.

Our Curriculum Ambitions

We recognise that every child is unique, while also understanding that there are important knowledge, skills and experiences that all children need to develop. Our curriculum ambitions are informed by our school values, our understanding of child development and evidence-informed approaches to early education.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), we place particular importance on developing the strong foundations that enable children to succeed as they move through school. We have therefore identified seven key ambitions for every child:

1. For all children to become confident and competent early readers, developing the phonics, language and comprehension foundations needed to access the wider curriculum.
2. For all children to recognise and write their own name, developing the early writing and fine motor skills needed for future success.
3. For all children to show care and empathy towards others and the environment, developing positive relationships and an understanding of their responsibilities.
4. For all children to communicate effectively in different ways, including through language, music, movement and performance.
5. For all children to play successfully with others, developing cooperation, negotiation and the ability to resolve disagreements.
6. For all children to understand how to keep themselves safe and healthy, developing knowledge and habits that support their physical and emotional wellbeing.
7. For all children to become increasingly independent, developing the confidence and practical skills to care for themselves and take responsibility for their own needs.

For each of these strands, carefully sequenced learning opportunities and experiences are planned throughout the curriculum. This enables children to build their knowledge , understanding and skills progressively from Nursery towards clearly defined endpoints in Reception.

We want every child to leave our EYFS with the strong foundations, knowledge, confidence and independence they need to flourish in the next stage of their education.

Reception Curriculum Map

Butterflies Curriculum Map

Caterpillars Curriculum Map