Foundation Stage (FS1 & FS2)

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – FS1 and FS2

The Early Years Foundation Stage at The British School in Gothenburg covers two critical year groups: FS1 and FS2. This foundational phase is designed to provide a nurturing, stimulating, and holistic environment where young learners embark on their educational journey with enthusiasm and confidence. The EYFS framework, followed internationally and rooted in best practices, ensures that every child develops essential skills through seven interconnected areas of learning and development.

Prime Areas: Building the Foundation for Lifelong Learning

At the core of EYFS are three prime areas, considered vital for sparking curiosity, fostering communication, and supporting social and emotional growth:

• Communication and Language: Children develop listening skills, attention span, understanding, and expressive speaking abilities that form the basis for effective communication and literacy success.

• Physical Development: Through activities enhancing both gross motor skills (such as running and jumping) and fine motor skills (such as writing and manipulating small objects), children build strength, coordination, and control.

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development: Emphasizing self-regulation, independence, and relationship-building, this area nurtures children’s confidence and emotional resilience in a supportive community.

Specific Areas: Applying Skills through Exploration and Creativity

The prime areas are reinforced by four specific areas that expand knowledge and creativity:

• Literacy: Children develop early reading and writing skills, including comprehension, word recognition, and the fundamentals of storytelling.

• Mathematics: Focused on understanding numbers and numerical patterns, children explore concepts through play and structured activities, laying the groundwork for future math success.

• Understanding the World: Through exploration of past and present, diverse cultures, communities, and the natural environment, children cultivate awareness and appreciation of the world around them.

• Expressive Arts and Design: Encouraging imagination and creativity, children engage in activities involving materials, music, movement, and drama to express themselves confidently.

At The British School in Gothenburg, the EYFS curriculum is delivered through a child-centred approach that combines purposeful play with guided learning. Our experienced educators carefully plan activities that promote holistic growth, ensuring every child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally during these formative years.