The nursery curriculum in the UK is governed by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which outlines seven areas of learning: Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development (the prime areas), along with Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design (the specific areas). Nurseries use this framework as a guide to structure play-based activities and foster holistic development in children under five, focusing on play, independent exploration, and engaging with others.  

The Seven Areas of Learning

• Prime Areas (Foundational)

  • Communication and Language: Developing children's ability to communicate and understand spoken language, including listening, attention, and speaking skills. 

  • Physical Development: Building both gross and fine motor skills through movement and handling, promoting physical health and self-care. 

  • Personal, Social and Emotional Development: Helping children to understand and manage their feelings, form positive relationships, develop self-confidence, and interact with others.
    
    

• Specific Areas (Building on Prime Areas)

  • Literacy: Developing early reading and writing skills, alongside strong language comprehension.
    
    

  • Mathematics: Introducing concepts of numbers, counting, problem-solving, shapes, space, and measure.
    
    

  • Understanding the World: Encouraging children to explore and learn about their environment, people, communities, and technology.
    
    

  • Expressive Arts and Design: Fostering creativity and imagination through art, music, and design activities.
    
    
    

How the Curriculum Works

• Play-Based Learning: Learning is integrated into everyday activities, including free play, guided learning, and outdoor experiences.
  
  

• Holistic Development: The curriculum aims to develop a child's whole being, balancing structured learning with independent exploration and play at their own pace.
  
  
  

• Early Learning Goals: The EYFS framework includes specific learning goals that nurseries work towards, providing clear learning outcomes for each area. 

• Development Matters: Nurseries often use the non-statutory guidance document, Development Matters, to support their curriculum planning and effective teaching. 

The Early Learning Goals can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2

Development Matters can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/development-matters--2