The document can be viewed at  TeacherNet - Online publications for schools (opens in a new window) .

The Early Years Foundation Stage - a single quality framework

• From birth to the end of the Foundation Stage
• An integrated approach to care and education
• A principled play-based approach
• Strengthens the links between Birth to Three Matters and the Foundation Stage
• Incorporates elements of the National Standards
• Ensures a consistent approach to care, learning and development from birth to the end of the Foundation Stage
• To help practitioners plan care and learning that is right for each child at each stage of their development

It is based on a principled approach and split into four themes

Theme: A Unique Child

Principle : Every child is a competent learner from birth who can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured

Theme: Positive Relationships

Principle: Children learn to be strong and independent from a base of loving and secure relationships with parents and/or a key person.

Theme: Learning and Development

Principle: Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates and all areas of learning and development are equally important and inter-connected.

Theme: Enabling Environments

Principle: The environment plays a key role in supporting and extending children's development and learning.

What is in the pack?

1. Statutory Guidance
2. Practice Guidance
3. Principles into Practice Cards
4. Wall Poster
5. CD ROM