What will they learn?

In school reception classes in England, children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework (EYFS). You may be familiar with this if your child has been to a childminder or childcare setting as all registered providers use this to support your child’s learning and development before the age of 5.

The framework is split into Prime and Specific Areas, which promote the learning and development of the whole child. From their confidence and attitude to learning, to their early academic skills, the framework supports children to become independent learners ready for the next year at school, and in building foundations for later life.

In their first school year, your child will probably be working towards mastering the skills and development in the 40-60 month section. You can find out more about this in the Parent’s Guide to the EYFS.

At the end of your child’s reception year in school, you will get an Early Years Foundation Stage report about your child’s development and learning progress. This will highlight the things your child is good at, any areas that might need more support when they move into Year 1 at primary school and how you can help.

Every child is different and develops at their own pace. If you have any concerns about your child’s development talk to your child’s key worker or teacher. It may be there is something simple they can do to help make things easier for your child. 

  • Prime areas:
    Physical Development
    Communication & Language
    Personal, Social & Emotional Development
  • Specific areas:
    Literacy
    Mathematics
    Understanding the World
    Expressive Art & Design