The Early Years

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is how the Government and early years’ professionals describe the time in a child’s life between birth and age five. At King’s Cross Academy, we see this as a crucial foundation for all future learning. It is a stage where children develop curiosity, independence, and confidence, preparing them not just for school, but for life.

In Nursery and Reception, learning follows the principles of our Academy vision – Love Learning Together – and is rooted in play, exploration, and meaningful experiences. Our team carefully balances child-led discovery with high-quality adult guidance, ensuring that every child develops the skills and knowledge they need to thrive.

We place strong emphasis on oracy, creativity, and outdoor learning, making the most of our rich local environment and partnerships. Whether through storytelling, role play, building in our outdoor spaces, or visits into the King’s Cross community, children learn to communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve from the very start of their journey with us.

Learning is structured around the prime and specific areas of the EYFS curriculum:

Prime areas of learning:

• Communication and language

• Physical development

• Personal, social and emotional development

Specific areas of learning:

• Literacy

• Mathematics

• Understanding the world

• Expressive arts and design

Our approach is flexible, creative, and inclusive. Every child is supported to develop their unique strengths, with a strong focus on language, relationships, and play. By the time they move into Year 1, children leave the EYFS as confident learners — ready to take on new challenges and excited about the next stage of their education.

If you would like to learn more about our approach to learning in the EYFS, come along to a prospective parent tour.