Nurseries and early years settings in the UK follow the EYFS.

Here's straightforward basic guide to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS):

1. What is EYFS?

   • The EYFS is a statutory framework in England that sets standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to 5 years old.
   • It applies to schools and childcare providers.

2. Key Principles:

   • The EYFS framework aims to ensure that children:
     • Learn and develop well
     • Are kept healthy and safe
     • Have the knowledge and skills they need to start school.

3. Areas of Learning and Development:

   • The EYFS includes seven areas of learning and development:
     • Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
     • Communication and Language
     • Physical Development
     • Literacy
     • Mathematics
     • Understanding the World
     • Expressive Arts and Design.

4. Age Bands:

   • These areas are split into three age bands:
     • Birth to three
     • 3-4 years old
     • 4-5 years old (reception year in school).

5. Providers’ Responsibility:

   • Early years providers (such as nurseries, childminders, and schools) must follow the current version of the EYFS framework for their provider type.
   • The framework also includes early years qualification requirements and standards.

6. Support and Resources:

   • Help for early years providers and childminders working with 0- to 5-year-olds is available.
   • Additional supporting materials can be found on the Foundation Years website.

Remember, the EYFS is designed to create a strong foundation for children’s future learning and development. If you have any specific questions or need further details, feel free to explore the official EYFS statutory framework provided by the Department for Education¹.