The Early Years Foundation Stage at St Dennis Primary Academy

At St Dennis Primary Academy, our goal is to nurture happy, resourceful, and independent learners who thrive and fulfil their individual potential. We believe that every child is unique and special, and we are committed to celebrating their achievements and successes.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), we follow a carefully structured curriculum that is guided by pupils' interests and designed to spark curiosity and enthusiasm. Our engaging and inspiring learning environment promotes a lifelong love of learning while fostering independence, resilience, and confidence.

We are dedicated to ensuring that every child makes better-than-expected progress from their individual starting points. Through thoughtful planning and supportive transitions, we prepare each pupil for a smooth and successful move into Key Stage One. Our motivated and caring staff provide both challenge and encouragement within a nurturing setting.

Children in our Nursery and Reception classes benefit from a play-based curriculum, where child-initiated exploration is balanced with purposeful adult-directed activities. This approach allows staff to model, scaffold, and extend learning in the moment, ensuring that children acquire both the essential skills and critical knowledge needed to reach developmental milestones.

Our EYFS Timetable and Curriculum Structure

To support high-quality teaching and targeted progression, we implement a carefully planned timetable that includes:

• Read Write Inc. Phonics – Delivered daily to develop strong early reading and writing skills. This structured, systematic programme supports children in learning to decode words confidently and apply phonics in their writing.

• Mastering Number – A daily maths session designed to develop number sense, fluency, and confidence in key mathematical concepts. This builds strong foundations for later success in mathematics.

• Outdoor Learning Time – Children access outdoor provision every day, with opportunities to explore, investigate, and build gross motor skills. Our outdoor environment enhances learning across all areas of the EYFS curriculum and encourages independence, creativity, and teamwork.

• Targeted Intervention Work – Carefully selected pupils receive additional support through small-group or one-to-one sessions. These are designed to address specific needs and close gaps in learning, ensuring all children make accelerated progress.

• Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI) – Delivered to identified pupils to support the development of vocabulary, sentence structure, and narrative skills. This evidence-based programme significantly enhances language acquisition and communication confidence.

• Fun Fit – A physical development programme delivered regularly to support children with coordination, balance, and core strength. It promotes physical confidence and readiness for writing and fine motor tasks.