Embracing the New Academic Year in EYFS: Nurturing Foundations, Curiosity, and Community

The start of a new academic year in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is always a moment filled with anticipation, excitement, and a touch of nervousness—for children, families, and educators alike. It’s a time of fresh starts, curious little faces, and boundless potential. As educators and parents, we are entrusted with guiding children through one of the most formative periods of their lives—laying the groundwork for skills, attitudes, and values that will serve them far beyond the classroom. In these formative early years, every interaction, routine, and experience shapes a child’s approach to learning and the world around them. As classrooms reopen and play areas come alive with eager chatter, educators are reminded of their profound role: to ignite curiosity, foster confidence, and create the secure foundations upon which all future learning is built.

Creating Environments That Spark Joy and Discovery

A child’s first encounters with school profoundly shape their perception of learning. This year, EYFS practitioners are focusing on creating warm, inclusive spaces where every child feels safe and valued. Thoughtfully arranged learning corners, outdoor exploration areas, and cozy reading nooks invite children to investigate, imagine, and express themselves freely. Most EYFS settings are placing a renewed focus on learning environments—recognising that a well-planned space is the silent teacher. Carefully chosen provocations, from natural materials to open-ended resources, encourage children to explore, problem-solve, and create. Outdoor spaces are being transformed into dynamic classrooms in their own right: sensory gardens for science exploration, mud kitchens for imaginative play, and shaded reading corners for quiet reflection. Practitioners are also rethinking how classroom layouts can support self-regulation and independence. Clearly defined learning zones and accessible resources empower even the youngest learners to make choices, manage transitions, and develop a sense of responsibility for their surroundings.

Prioritising Emotional Wellbeing and Positive Relationships

Transitioning into a new academic year—especially for those starting school for the first time—can be overwhelming. This year, educators are dedicating additional time to building relationships and establishing trust. Gradual settling-in periods, small group activities, and family involvement days help children feel secure in their new environment. The return to school is not just about routines and timetables—it’s about relationships. Establishing trust with new pupils and their families is key. Through orientation, meet-and-greet sessions, and family workshops, teachers are ensuring smooth transitions. Emotional wellbeing remains a priority, with mindfulness moments, circle time discussions, and play-based approaches supporting children as they adjust. Emotional literacy is being woven into daily routines through circle times, storybooks about feelings, and mindfulness activities. Teachers are modelling empathy, active listening, and problem-solving strategies, ensuring children learn that their voices and emotions matter.

Play-Based Learning with Purpose

The EYFS framework emphasises that play is the cornerstone of early learning. This year’s curriculum planning showcases a thoughtful blend of structured and child-initiated play. Literacy and numeracy are introduced through meaningful contexts: phonics games built around beloved story characters, counting challenges during nature walks, and role-play scenarios that foster communication and collaboration.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) exploration is also gaining momentum in EYFS classrooms. Building with loose parts, experimenting with water flow, or observing insects in outdoor habitats sparks critical thinking and introduces foundational scientific concepts.

Celebrating Diversity and Sustainability

This academic year, many EYFS settings are embedding sustainability and cultural awareness into their curriculum. Activities like planting gardens, sorting recyclables, and celebrating diverse traditions help children develop respect for their world and for each other. Literacy and numeracy continue to be taught through playful, meaningful contexts:

story-based phonics, counting games during outdoor play, and role-play scenarios that encourage problem-solving and communication.

A notable trend this year is the integration of global awareness and environmental responsibility into everyday learning. Teachers are curating multicultural story collections, inviting parents to share cultural traditions, and hosting “world days” where children can experience food, music, and customs from around the globe.

Sustainability projects—such as classroom composting, recycling challenges, and planting edible gardens—are teaching even the youngest learners that they can make a positive impact on the planet. These initiatives nurture respect for diversity and the natural world, values that will guide children far beyond their early years.

Strengthening Partnerships with Families and Communities

Parents and caregivers are indispensable partners in a child’s learning journey. EYFS settings are expanding opportunities for family engagement through interactive workshops, volunteering in classrooms, and community service projects. Some schools are hosting “Stay and Play” mornings where parents can experience their child’s learning firsthand, while others are creating digital portfolios to keep families informed and involved. Parents remain partners in their child’s learning journey. Schools are inviting families to volunteer in creative workshops, share cultural traditions, or join local community projects. This partnership strengthens the home-school connection and shows children that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Community connections are equally important. Collaborations with local libraries, artists, and environmental groups provide enriching experiences that broaden children’s horizons and show them the value of belonging to a larger community.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

As the new academic year unfolds, there is a shared sense of optimism across EYFS settings. Teachers are inspired by the possibilities each day brings, parents are eager to support their children’s growth, and children are stepping boldly into a world of discovery. The EYFS stage is not merely preparation for formal schooling—it is the foundation for curiosity, resilience, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning. This year, as we guide children through their first chapters of education, we are reminded that every small step—a question asked, a friendship formed, a problem solved—builds toward a brighter, more compassionate future. As we step into the new academic year, there’s a shared sense of excitement—teachers eager to inspire, parents proud to support, and children ready to discover. The EYFS stage is more than preparation for formal schooling; it is the foundation for curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning. Together, we can make this year one of exploration, joy, and growth.

By Remediana Dias