In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the National Curriculum stands as a guiding framework, shaping the learning journey of students from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to Key Stage 1 (KS1). This essay delves into the principles underpinning the EYFS and KS1, exploring the influences on educational practices during the crucial transition period. We will dissect the similarities and differences between these stages, aiming to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations driving the development of Key Stage 1.
Understanding the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS):
The EYFS serves as a vital framework, setting standards for children from birth to age 5. Emphasizing personalized learning, care, and development, the EYFS strives to provide each child with the best possible start in life. Aligned with the Every Child Matters outcomes, the overarching goal is to ensure children stay safe, are healthy, enjoy and achieve, make positive contributions, and achieve economic well-being (DCSF 2008a).
The Four Guiding Themes of EYFS:
The EYFS operates on four guiding themes:
- A Unique Child: Recognizing each child as an experienced learner, promoting flexibility, confidence, and self-assurance.
- Positive Relationships: Fostering strength and independence through loving and secure relationships with parents, families, and carers.
- Enabling Environment: Acknowledging the crucial role of the environment in supporting and extending children’s development and learning.
- Learning and Development: Recognizing the diversity in children’s ways of learning, emphasizing the equal importance and interconnectedness of all areas of learning and development (DCSF 2008a).
The Transition Challenge:
Transition from EYFS to Key Stage 1 is a continuous process rather than a one-time event. It requires careful planning and communication with children and parents. While the EYFS profile informs planning for Year 1, it’s crucial for teachers in both stages to be familiar with each other’s frameworks (DCSF 2008b). However, this transition can pose challenges, especially for children accustomed to the freedom of play-based learning.
Challenges of Transition:
As highlighted by Moyles (2007), the shift from the play-based environment of nursery and reception to the more structured Key Stage 1 can be jarring for some children. The abrupt transition to sitting still and listening to teachers can potentially turn off five-year-olds from education. Research by Wood and Bennett (2001) emphasizes the impact of early childhood transitions on children, making the move from foundation stage to Key Stage 1 a significant focus (Margetts 2002, Dockett and Perry 2004a-2005).
Creative Curriculum as a Solution:
Recognizing the challenges of transition, the introduction of the creative curriculum aims to infuse creativity into foundation subjects in Key Stage 1. The emphasis is on personalized learning, key life skills, and increased use of the local area for out-of-classroom learning experiences (Creative curriculum 2008 online). Feedback suggests positive changes, with increased excitement, involvement, and parental engagement in children’s learning.
Linking EYFS with Key Stage 1: A Struggle:
Despite efforts to bridge the gap, the Ofsted survey in 2007 revealed that many schools struggled to link the EYFS with Key Stage 1. Lack of clear connections led to a majority of schools introducing National Curriculum subjects at the beginning of the autumn term. Year 1 teachers found the EYFS profile confusing, and its potential value as a personal record was often overlooked (Rose, J 2009).
The Cambridge Primary Review’s Perspective:
The ongoing debate on the starting age for formal schooling is explored by the Cambridge Primary Review. While some propose raising the starting age to six, aligning with Key Stage 1, concerns arise about potential disadvantages for children who may miss out on early education (Alexander, R 2009). The need to balance protecting early childhood with effective education is emphasized.
Effectiveness of Pre-school Education:
The Effective Provision of Pre-school Education (EPPE) project sheds light on the positive impact of high-quality pre-school provision on children’s intellectual and social/behavioral development up to the end of Key Stage 1. Both the quality and quantity of pre-school experience are identified as influential factors (EPPE 2004).
The National Curriculum: A Reflective Mirror of Society’s Values:
The National Curriculum is designed to reflect and influence societal values. It aims to establish entitlements, standards, continuity, coherence, and public understanding. It serves as a pathway to equality of opportunity, a healthy democracy, a productive economy, and sustainable development (National Curriculum online).
The Role of Teachers in Shaping Education:
The quality of teaching is pivotal in determining the success of an education system. The Cambridge Primary Review emphasizes that a curriculum is only as good as those who teach it (Rose, J 2009). McKinsey’s 2007 report reinforces the idea that the quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers.
The Age Dilemma:
The debate on the starting age for school in England is intensified by comparisons with other European countries. While England starts formal education at five, countries like Sweden and Denmark delay until seven. The Primary Review challenges assumptions about the long-term advantages of an early start, emphasizing the need to focus on the quality of education (BBC News 2008 online).
As we navigate the intricacies of the National Curriculum and its application from Early Years to Key Stage 1, it becomes evident that the educational journey is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The challenges of transition, the importance of quality teaching, and the ongoing debate on starting age highlight the need for continuous reflection and improvement. By embracing creativity, fostering positive relationships, and adapting to evolving educational philosophies, we can strive to provide children with a holistic and enriching learning experience. Ultimately, the National Curriculum serves as a compass, guiding educators in their mission to instill a lifelong love of learning in every child.