The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
The first five years of child development are crucial to children's health, wellbeing and future outcomes.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework sets standards for learning, development and care of children from birth to five years.
- Statutory guidance: Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework
- Statutory framework for childminders (EYFS)
The EYFS framework also includes early years qualification requirements and standards.
All Ofsted registered early years providers must follow the EYFS Statutory Framework, including:
- Pre-schools
- Nurseries
- Out of school care
- School reception classes
- Childminders (since January 2024 there has been a separate statutory framework for childminders)
In addition to the statutory documents, the following guidance documents may be useful:
Planning guidance and support
- Development matters: non-statutory curriculum guidance for the early years foundation stage
- Birth to five matters: Non-statutory guidance for the early years foundation stage
- Department for Education videos supporting practitioner
Support for parents
The What to expect in the Early Years Foundation Stage guide, has been written for parents to support their understanding of what early years providers deliver to support the learning and development requirements of the EYFS. This is a great resource to share with parents on registration. This can also be a useful document for anyone new to early years.
Additional guidance for providers
The Department for Education (DfE) have created free guidance and training for those who work in the early years. This is a great resource for developing practitioners understanding of the EYFS and their responsibilities within this. A selection of videos support understanding and make this a crucial part of any practitioner's induction.
The Foundation Years website provides the latest news, policy and resources for early years professionals. A great tool to keep up to date and informed.
For further help, support and advice about EYFS or early years issues, contact the Early Years Improvement Team at earlyyears@herefordshire.gov.uk