After a long break from my blog, I have decided to resume my activity and post more frequently. During this time, my knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage has significantly grown, as has my experience. By implementing a more systematic approach to EYFS in my school, we have clearly seen a huge improvement this year, proving that even what we call child-initiated learning benefits from a more structured approach that serves as the backbone for our children’s learning.
Having a clearer vision and a better understanding of the curriculum can make a difference, but the implementation of pedagogies researched for these year bands is the most crucial step. A good understanding of how children learn and how their learning processes develop as they grow is key to a more successful pedagogy. In addition, building strong and healthy relationships with your pupils also plays a key role in their education, as those relationships provide them with a safe, familiar environment where they feel ready to learn.
Another factor that has had a massive impact on our pupils’ education has been embedding consistent routines throughout their school day. From key transitions, such as finishing the last morning session and moving from the classroom to the canteen, to more subtle ones, such as visual cues to start certain lessons or clear signs to signal an instruction—these visual cues have proven to be far more effective than using our voices, regardless of whether we speak gently or more loudly.
To summarise the last few months, the education we now offer to EYFS parents at our school has seen notable improvement, made possible by a better understanding of the National Curriculum, a greater appreciation for the importance of building healthy relationships with children, consistent routines and behaviour management, and last but not least, the hard work of a group of passionate and committed teachers.
Mr Sanchez Tutoring 