EYFS

Understanding the EYFS

A Guide for Parents at Hove Village Day Nurseries

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the statutory framework for early years education in England. It sets the standards that all nurseries, preschools, and childminders must follow to ensure that children from birth to five learn, develop, and are kept healthy and safe.

At Hove Village Day Nurseries, the EYFS forms the foundation of everything we do — ensuring your child receives high-quality care and learning tailored to their unique needs.

The Four Guiding Principles of the EYFS

A Unique Child
Every child is a capable, resilient learner who develops at their own pace.
Positive Relationships
Children thrive when they feel safe, secure, and supported by caring adults.
Enabling Environments
A rich, stimulating environment — both indoors and outdoors — encourages exploration and discovery.
Learning and Development
A balanced approach supports all areas of growth — helping children become confident, lifelong learners.

The Seven Areas of Learning and Development

The EYFS is split into three Prime Areas and four Specific Areas.

Prime Areas (fundamental in early development):

Communication and Language
Listening, understanding, and speaking with confidence.
Physical Development
Coordination, movement, health, and self-care skills.
Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
Building self-confidence, independence, emotional awareness, and relationships.

Specific Areas (building on the prime areas):

Literacy
Stories, phonics, mark-making, and early reading and writing skills.
Mathematics
Understanding numbers, counting, shapes, patterns, and problem-solving.
Understanding the World
Learning about nature, people, communities, technology, and the wider world.
Expressive Arts and Design
Creativity through music, art, dance, role play, and imaginative activities.

How the EYFS Works at Hove Village

Play-Based Learning: Children learn best through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences.
Individual Support: We observe each child regularly, tailoring activities to their interests and developmental stage.
School Readiness: Our curriculum nurtures independence, curiosity, and confidence — preparing children for a smooth transition to school.
Partnership with Parents: We work closely with you, sharing observations, updates, and progress to ensure the best outcomes for your child.

Supporting Happy, Confident Learners

The EYFS isn’t just a framework — it’s a philosophy that respects the magic of childhood. At Hove Village, we bring it to life through caring relationships, inspiring environments, and rich experiences that help every child thrive.

For more information, speak to our team or take a look at the official Government EYFS guide.