Our Curriculum
At Marden Pre-School Playgroup, we follow the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which sets the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to age five. We recognise that every child is unique, developing at their own pace and in their own way—there is no “right” level to be at, only a journey we support with care and expertise.
Our curriculum is designed to be broad, balanced, and responsive to each child’s interests, and reflects both the EYFS principles and the strengths recognised in our Outstanding Ofsted report. We create a highly stimulating, inclusive environment where play is purposeful, learning is fun, and children thrive socially, emotionally and academically.
Areas of Learning
We structure our curriculum around the seven areas of learning as set out in the EYFS, ensuring that every child has daily opportunities to explore each area through engaging, meaningful play.
Prime Areas:
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Building self-confidence, independence, and strong relationships. - Physical Development
Enhancing gross and fine motor skills through movement, outdoor play and hands-on activities. - Communication and Language
Encouraging rich conversations, storytelling and active listening to develop essential language skills.
Specific Areas:
- Literacy
Promoting early reading and writing through stories, phonics, and mark making. - Mathematics
Exploring numbers, shapes, patterns and problem-solving in practical, fun ways. - Understanding the World
Learning about communities, cultures, nature, and technology through real-life experiences. - Expressive Arts and Design
Inspiring creativity through music, dance, art, role-play and imaginative expression.
Our daily activities are carefully planned around our termly or half-termly topics, with flexibility to follow children’s interests as they emerge. As Ofsted noted in 2025, “Staff design resources and activities that stimulate and fascinate children,” ensuring that learning remains joyful and deeply engaging.
Learning Through Play
We believe children learn best through stimulated, purposeful play. It helps them to make friends, share, take turns, and express themselves. When children are happy, relaxed, and feel valued, they grow in confidence and independence—laying strong foundations for a smooth transition to school.
Clothing and Uniform
Because creativity and messy play are central to our sessions, we recommend that children come dressed in clothes that they (and you) won’t mind getting messy! From painting and sticking to exploring outdoors in all weather, children are free to engage fully with the learning process.
- Please send your child with a coat each day—we play outside in most weather, thanks to our covered garden space.
- Uniform is optional but recommended to help protect your child’s own clothes. Uniforms is a Red Jumper, Polo & Black Bottoms.
- Labelling: Please ensure all removable clothing is clearly labelled so it can be returned if misplaced.
