Early Years Foundation Stage EYFS
The Statutory Framework for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old. All schools and Ofsted-registered early years providers must follow the EYFS, including childminders, preschools, nurseries and school reception classes.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework supports an integrated approach to early learning and care. It gives all professionals a set of common principles and commitments to deliver quality early education and childcare experiences to all children.
To support practitioners and inspectors to help understanding of child development through the early years we use a non-statutory guidance called Development Matters Development Matters 2021, shares a view on how children learn and develop. It can be referred to by Ofsted to evaluate a settings understanding of learning outcomes for the children and to ensure these are evidenced appropriately through an effective assessment process.