Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)

(EYLF)

Early Years Learning
Framework

Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)

The curriculum at Littlehampton ELC is child initiated, play based and guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), National Quality Standards and Montessori theories of learning. Our curriculum, exclusive to us, provides a holistic approach to education and combines the EYLF with the Montessori curriculum. This combination develops the child’s core learning not only for the classroom but for life.

The framework is a key component of the National Quality Standards for early childhood education and care. Belonging, Being and Becoming – The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) describes the principles, practices and outcomes that support and enhance young children’s learning from birth to five years of age, as well as their transition to school.

The Framework conveys the highest expectations for all children’s learning from birth to five years and through the transitions to school. It communicates these expectations through the following five Learning Outcomes:

Children have a strong sense of identity
Children are connected with and contribute to their world
Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
Children are confident and involved learners
Children are effective communicators.

There are also seven quality areas that include:

Quality Area 1 – Educational program and practice
Quality Area 2 – Children’s health and safety
Quality Area 3 – Physical Environment
Quality Area 4 – Staffing arrangements
Quality Area 5 – Relationships with children
Quality Area 6 – Collaborative partnerships with families and communities
Quality Area 7 – Governance and leadership

Fundamental to the EYLF is a view of children’s lives as characterised by belonging, being and becoming:

Belonging

Experiencing belonging – knowing where and with who you belong – is integral to human existence. Children belong first to a family, a cultural group, a neighbourhood and a wider community. Belonging acknowledges children’s interdependence with others and the basis of relationships in defining identities.

Being

Childhood is a time to be, to seek and make meaning of the world. Being recognises the significance of the here and now in children’s lives. It is about the present and them knowing themselves, building and maintaining relationships with others, engaging with life’s joys and complexities, and meeting challenges in everyday life.

Becoming

Children’s identities, knowledge, understandings, capacities, skills and relationships change during childhood. They are shaped by many different events and circumstances. Becoming reflects this process of rapid and significant change that occurs in the early years as young children learn and grow. It emphasises learning to participate fully and actively in society.

Nature and sustainability is part of our core at Littlehampton ELC. Our outdoor area encourages children to immerse themselves in nature play. Children are encouraged to care and harvest our extensive vegetable gardens. The herbs and vegetables are used in centre cooking and we also pass on the surplus of the garden to our families and extended community. Our vegetables can be found at the front of our centre! Please feel free to help yourself!