There is a clear message from both the Department for Education and Ofsted: the curriculum begins at the very start of a child’s journey in school. As a result, Subject Leaders are expected to have a secure understanding of how their subject is represented within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
When Subject Leaders understand the core principles of the EYFS, they are better equipped to translate these into practice across the whole school — ensuring progression, consistency and strong outcomes for all children.
Subject leaders must recognise that EYFS is a distinct phase, not a watered-down Key Stage 1. They need to understand:
✔ The pedagogical differences in EYFS
✔ The end-of-Reception expectations (Early Learning Goals)
✔ How learning progresses into Year 1
✔ How to articulate this confidently within their leadership role
A clear grasp of these elements enables Subject Leaders to lead curriculum design effectively, monitor implementation with accuracy and evaluate impact meaningfully.
Getting it Right from the Start
Here at Early Excellence, we offer a comprehensive range of support to help Subject Leaders develop confidence and clarity in their role — from curriculum development and subject progression to monitoring and evaluating children’s outcomes.
Explore our dedicated courses, offered both as live and recorded webinars or face-to-face at Host Schools across the country, or get in touch to discuss bespoke training or consultancy for your school.
For Senior Leaders who want to ensure that their knowledge of the EYFS is relevant and up to date
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Consider the quality of learning in your EYFS, ensuring you feel confident to articulate this
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Focus on the quality of teaching and learning in your KS1 ensuring increasing challenge & clear progress
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Explore aspects including progression, curriculum links & ‘risk & challenge’ to develop your vision for learning outdoors
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Be confident that your provision for 2-3yr olds is high quality & statutory requirements are being fulfilled
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Get in touch to find out how we can bespoke training or consultancy to support your Subject Leaders
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