10-Step Guide to Developing and Shaping an EYFS Curriculum that Meets Ofsted Expectations

What guidance should nurseries use when developing and shaping their EYFS Curriculum?

The EYFS framework provides the structure for your curriculum, but it is up to you as a nursery manager to decide how to expand, extend, and broaden the curriculum to best meet the needs of the children. Ofsted does not expect nurseries to use the government's non-statutory guidance, "Development Matters," when developing their EYFS curriculum. However, some nurseries may find it helpful to use this guidance as a resource. Ofsted does not inspect against this guidance.

What format should curriculum mapping take in the early years?

When it comes to curriculum mapping, Ofsted does not have a preferred method for how nurseries should design their curriculum in the early years. Some nurseries may choose to map out their curriculum, while others may present it in a different way. Inspectors will want to understand how the curriculum in the early years is the foundation for key stage 1 and how knowledge builds in a sequence for the children.

How should nurseries track progress in the EYFS?

Ofsted does not ask to see any internal tracking or assessment information, such as progress tracked against "Development Matters." Inspectors gather evidence during an inspection by talking to leaders, teachers, and children about what they are learning. It is important for practitioners to focus on getting to know the children and finding out what they know and can do, rather than relying on a specific system for assessment.

When it comes to progress, Ofsted considers the curriculum as the progression model. Progress means that children know more, remember more, and are able to do more of what was intended in the curriculum. In the early years, progress can be demonstrated through a child's knowledge of sounds, understanding of concepts, ability to perform certain actions, and development of behaviours and habits for the future.

10 Steps you need to consider when designing your curriculum

1.EYFS Expectations

Familiarise yourself with the EYFS framework and Ofsted guidelines. This includes understanding the principles and requirements set by Ofsted for the EYFS curriculum. This will help you to ensure that your curriculum aligns with the expectations of Ofsted and that it is meeting the needs of the children.

2.Use EYFS Framework

Use the EYFS framework as the foundation for your curriculum and adapt it to meet the children's needs. The EYFS framework provides the structure for your curriculum and by understanding it, you can ensure that your curriculum covers all the important areas of learning and development for children. You can then expand, extend and broaden the curriculum to best meet the needs of the children in your care.

3.Expand and Broaden Curriculum

Consider the children's needs and adapt the curriculum accordingly. This includes taking into account the different abilities, interests and backgrounds of the children in your care. You should aim to provide a curriculum that is inclusive and allows all children to reach their full potential.

4.Use Resources

Use non-statutory guidance as a resource but not a requirement. Resources such as "Development Matters" can provide useful information and ideas for enhancing the curriculum, but it is important to remember that it is not mandatory and that it is ultimately up to you as a nursery manager to decide how to shape your curriculum.

5.Curriculum Mapping

Choose a format that effectively communicates the curriculum to inspectors. The format you choose for mapping out your curriculum should be one that clearly demonstrates how the curriculum is meeting the needs of the children and how it aligns with the EYFS framework. It should be easy for inspectors to understand and should demonstrate how learning is built in a sequence.

6.Foundation for Key Stage 1

Ensure that the early years curriculum sets the foundation for key stage 1. This includes understanding how the curriculum in the early years is the foundation for key stage 1 and how knowledge builds in a sequence for the children. This will ensure that the children are well prepared for the next stage of their learning journey.

7.Understanding Children

Prioritise interactions and assessments that provide understanding of the children's abilities and needs. This includes focusing on getting to know the children, understanding their learning styles and assessing their understanding and progress in a way that is appropriate for their age and stage of development.

8.Tracking Progress

Use the EYFS framework to track progress and ensure children meet learning and development requirements. This includes ensuring that the curriculum is used as a progression model, and that progress is tracked in a way that aligns with the EYFS framework.

9.Foundation for Success

Ensure the curriculum provides the necessary foundation for children's success in key stage 1. This includes making sure that the curriculum covers all the important areas of learning and development that will prepare children for the next stage of their education.

10.Internal Tracking

Ensure internal tracking aligns with the EYFS framework and does not detract from important interactions with children. This includes making sure that any internal tracking or assessment is in line with the EYFS framework, and that it does not take away from the important interactions and assessments that provide understanding of the children's abilities and needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the EYFS framework is the foundation for your curriculum and should be used as a guide to ensure that all areas of learning and development are covered. It is important to take into account the needs and abilities of the children in your care, and to adapt the curriculum accordingly. Use resources such as "Development Matters" as a guide, but remember that it is not mandatory. When it comes to curriculum mapping, choose a format that effectively communicates the curriculum to inspectors and demonstrates how it meets the needs of the children. By following our 10 steps, you can ensure that your EYFS curriculum meets the expectations of Ofsted and maximises the learning potential of the children in your care.