At Bitterne Manor Primary School, we believe the Early Years form the foundation for a lifetime of learning, curiosity, and well-being. Our vision is to provide a nurturing, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to explore.

We embrace and celebrate the rich diversity of our Southampton community, teaching children to respect and value all people, cultures, and the natural world. Through caring relationships, high-quality learning experiences, and a strong sense of belonging, we foster kindness, empathy, and global awareness from the very beginning.

Our goal is to nurture children who are:

• Compassionate and confident
• Curious and independent
• Well-prepared for their next stage of learning

We support each child as a unique individual, helping them grow into resilient, articulate learners with a lifelong love of learning.

Curriculum Intent – What we aim to achieve

We aim to provide a stimulating environment and strong relationships that help every child flourish, grow in confidence, and develop a love of learning – regardless of background or need.

Key aims:

• Build on children’s prior experiences and interests
• Promote holistic development through play and purposeful learning
• Ensure smooth transitions into school through strong partnerships with parents and nurseries
• Prepare children emotionally, socially, and academically for Key Stage 1 and beyond.

Our curriculum is rooted in the EYFS Framework and underpinned by the belief that early childhood is a vital time to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes children need for future success.

Implementation – How we deliver our curriculum

We implement our EYFS curriculum through a balanced mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities, carefully tailored to each child’s needs and development stage.

Our approach includes:

• Effective transitions: home visits, parent meetings, and stay-and-play sessions
• Play-based learning in rich, well-resourced indoor and outdoor environments
• High-quality adult interactions to develop language, thinking, and social skills
• A clear learning sequence across all 7 EYFS areas, with focus on:
    - Communication and Language
    - Physical Development
    - Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Ongoing, responsive assessment through observations, professional judgement, and the Tapestry Learning Journal

Inclusive practice is at the heart of what we do. We ensure that all children, including those with SEND or additional needs, receive the right support and challenge to thrive.

Impact – The difference we make

The result of our Early Years provision is confident, curious, and happy children who are ready for the next stage in their education.

Children leave our Early Years with:

• A positive attitude to learning
• Strong communication skills
• Independence and emotional resilience
• Secure foundations in early literacy and maths
• The ability to collaborate and play well with others

We track children’s progress closely and work in partnership with parents to support continued learning at home. Children’s development is regularly documented and celebrated through the Tapestry Learning Journal.

Ultimately, our Early Years setting equips every child with the skills, knowledge, and mindset they need for lifelong learning and well-being.