ABSTRACT
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the National Curriculum KS1
This chapter examines the development of children within the education system in England, the Early Years Foundation stage and the National Curriculum at Key Stage 1 (age groups 4–8 years). Its focus is upon on personal, social and emotional development (PSED) as a key area and suggests that this area is central to the development of the characteristics of effective learning. It examines the curriculum and guidance which practitioners will be working within.
The chapter discusses how at this age range of children experience significant transitions from one educational setting to another and from one curriculum/guidance to another. The chapter examines how successful transitions develop a sense of belonging, requiring children to have the skills and characteristics that will enable them to successfully manage change. The chapter includes an in-depth discussion on school readiness and its implications for practice and impact on children. Finally, the chapter explores the role of adults in supporting children’s PSED and the importance of friendships which become increasingly significant for young children and can be used to support children at times of transition. Each section has been considered within the context of current frameworks, The Early Years Foundation Stage, EYFS (DfE, 2021), Birth to Five Matters: Non-statutory Guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage (Early Education, 2021) and The National Curriculum (DfE, 2013).
