Our centres follow the national Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum which sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old. The Learning Experience Academic Program® (L.E.A.P.®) is a discovery-based curriculum that uses the EYFS seven areas of learning and development to shape the educational programmes, giving each child the opportunity to move through specifically-designed learning modules at his or her own level of interest and ability. Each learning module has a specialised curriculum with weekly and daily themes.
Whilst all areas of learning and development are important and inter-connected, the EYFS framework splits the areas of learning into ‘Prime’ and ‘Specific’ areas.
The three prime areas reflect the key skills and capacities that all children need to develop and learn effectively, and become ready for school. These three areas are particularly crucial for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive.
Three prime areas
• Communication and Language;
• Physical development; and
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development.
For our youngest children we focus strongly on the three prime areas, which are the basis for successful learning in the other four specific areas. As children grow in confidence and ability within the three prime areas the balance shifts towards a more equal focus on all prime and specific areas of learning.
We are also required to support children in four specific areas, through which the three prime areas are strengthened and applied.
Four specific areas
• Literacy;
• Mathematics;
• Understanding the World; and
• Expressive Arts and Design.
At The Learning Experience® we facilitate the learning of the EYFS areas of learning through our many different learning centres. Each area of learning and development is implemented through planned, purposeful play and through a mix of adult-led and child-initiated activity. Play is essential for children’s development, building their confidence as they learn to explore, to think about problems, and relate to others. Children learn by leading their own play, and by taking part in play which is guided by adults.
