{"id":8026,"date":"2023-12-21T15:17:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-21T15:17:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cornerstoneseducation.co.uk\/?p=8026"},"modified":"2024-09-11T13:04:46","modified_gmt":"2024-09-11T12:04:46","slug":"a-guide-to-mixed-age-planning-for-eyfs-and-ks1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cornerstoneseducation.co.uk\/a-guide-to-mixed-age-planning-for-eyfs-and-ks1\/","title":{"rendered":"A guide to mixed-age planning for EYFS and KS1"},"content":{"rendered":"
Primary schools have many different sizes and class structures – from large, single-form entry schools with over 90 children in a year group, to small schools that might only have one child in a year group.<\/p>
Smaller schools often have a mix of EYFS and KS1 children in the same class due to changing numbers. This mix of ages is among the most challenging as teachers have two different curriculum models<\/a> to follow, and it can be difficult to know which learning approach will give both groups of children relevant experiences.<\/p> As children transition from reception into year 1, keeping similar provisions, pedagogy<\/a> and learning experiences will support them in demonstrating their abilities as effective learners. Here are some of the ways this can be achieved.<\/p> Year 1 teachers can help children transition by building on the EYFS profile assessment<\/a> completed at the end of the reception year. This profile assessment is key for supporting teachers in planning the year 1 curriculum. By using the profile, teachers with a mix of EYFS and KS1 children will be able to identify their strengths and areas for development, and provide a smooth transition into year 1.<\/p> Teachers are often concerned about how to approach learning for a mixed EYFS and KS1 class to ensure all children have the learning experiences they need. Consider how to make aspects of your pedagogy<\/a> transferable between the early years and year 1. One method is to keep the enhanced and continuous provision in the classroom to provide familiarity and consistency for reception children.<\/p> Whatever your pedagogical approach to learning, it is crucial to have a strong understanding of the curriculum expectations for both EYFS and KS1, and a good knowledge of all learners\u2019 needs. There are many varied approaches to teaching children in the EYFS. You can read more on this topic in my blog series, Teaching Approaches in the Early Years<\/a>, which explores the complexity of early years teaching.<\/p> Links should be made across the two curriculum models by referring to the EYFS educational programmes and KS1 expectations in the national curriculum. Figure 1 shows an example of the links that can be made between a year 1 project on plant parts and an EYFS project exploring seasonal changes using Development Matters and the national curriculum for England.<\/p>Transition from EYFS to KS1<\/strong><\/h5>
1. Use the EYFS profile<\/strong><\/h5>
2. Establish a transferable pedagogy<\/strong><\/h5>
3. Make effective links<\/strong><\/h5>