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The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework sets the statutory standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five years old in England. It supports early years educators to provide consistent, high-quality experiences that help children feel safe, supported and ready for the next stage of education.
For anyone working in early years or exploring early years teaching careers, understanding what the EYFS framework is forms the foundation of effective practice.
What is the EYFS framework?
The EYFS framework explains how early years providers must support children’s learning, development and wellbeing. It applies to all Ofsted-registered settings, including nurseries, preschools, childminders and school reception classes.
It is followed by a wide range of professionals, including early years practitioners and teachers, ensuring a shared approach to early learning across different settings.
The Department for Education regularly reviews and updates the framework to reflect current research, safeguarding expectations and best practice in early years education.
The official EYFS framework guidance
Why the EYFS framework exists
The EYFS was introduced to make sure every child receives the same high standard of care and education, regardless of background or setting. Research shows that high-quality early learning has a lasting impact on children’s development, confidence and future achievement.
The framework aims to:
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Ensure quality and consistency across all early years settings
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Provide a secure foundation through purposeful learning experiences
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Support strong partnerships between educators and parents or carers
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Recognise that every child develops at their own pace
A complete breakdown of the EYFS framework
The three core elements of the EYFS
The EYFS framework is built around three key elements that guide daily practice.
1. Learning and development requirements
These requirements outline what children should learn and how educators should support that learning. They are structured around the seven areas of learning and development.
The full EYFS statutory framework PDF
2. Assessment requirements
Assessment in the EYFS is ongoing and formative. Educators observe children during everyday activities to understand progress and plan next steps, rather than using formal testing.
This approach reflects the realities of working in a nursery setting, where learning is embedded in play and routine interactions.
Key changes to the EYFS framework
3. Safeguarding and welfare requirements
Safeguarding sits at the heart of the EYFS. The framework sets clear expectations around health, safety, staffing, policies and procedures to protect children’s wellbeing.
Understanding wider safeguarding responsibilities in schools also helps early years staff meet their statutory duties with confidence.
The seven areas of learning and development
The EYFS includes seven areas of learning. These are split into three prime areas and four specific areas.
Prime areas
Prime areas form the foundation for all learning and development.
Communication and language
Supports listening, understanding and speaking. Children learn to express themselves confidently and engage in meaningful conversations.
Physical development
Focuses on gross and fine motor skills, alongside healthy habits such as physical activity, hygiene and nutrition.
Personal, social and emotional development
Helps children build self-confidence, manage emotions, develop relationships and understand social rules.
Specific areas
Specific areas build on the prime areas and introduce more focused learning.
Literacy
Covers early reading and writing, including phonics, letter recognition and storytelling.
Mathematics
Introduces numbers, counting, patterns, shapes and early problem-solving through play and real-life experiences.
Understanding the world
Encourages exploration of nature, communities, cultures and technology, helping children make sense of the world around them.
Expressive arts and design
Supports creativity through art, music, role-play and movement, allowing children to express ideas and emotions.
An overview of the EYFS framework
How children are assessed in EYFS
Assessment is a natural part of everyday practice in early years settings. Educators observe children regularly and record progress in a learning journey. This may include:
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Written observations
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Photos or videos
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Samples of work
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Contributions from parents or carers
These records help educators understand how each child learns and plan meaningful next steps.
At the end of the Reception year, children are assessed against the Early Learning Goals. This information supports a smooth transition into Year 1 and aligns with wider accountability measures, including Ofsted inspection changes.
Why understanding the EYFS matters for educators
Knowing what the EYFS framework is allows educators to:
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Plan purposeful, inclusive learning experiences
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Meet statutory safeguarding and welfare requirements
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Track progress accurately and confidently
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Build strong, trusting relationships with families
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Support every child as an individual
The framework provides clarity, structure and reassurance, helping educators deliver the best possible outcomes for young children.
For those considering their next step, there are a wide range of nursery and early years jobs available across England and Wales.
Frequently asked questions about the EYFS framework
What age group does the EYFS framework cover?
The EYFS applies to children from birth until the end of the Reception year, usually age five.
Is the EYFS framework mandatory?
Yes. All Ofsted-registered early years providers in England must follow the EYFS framework.
How is progress assessed in EYFS?
Progress is assessed through regular observation and recorded in a learning journey. Formal testing is not used.
Is the EYFS used in Scotland or Wales?
No. Scotland follows the Curriculum for Excellence and Wales uses the Foundation Phase. These frameworks share similar values but differ in structure.
What are the recent EYFS updates?
The 2024 update focused on improving outcomes for disadvantaged children. Further safeguarding and welfare updates apply from 2025.
