Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum

Current 2026 guidance

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework is a legal document published by the UK Department for Education (DfE) that sets the standards all early years settings must meet for children from birth to age 5 in England. It applies to:

Nurseries

Preschools

Childminders

Reception classes in school

Other Ofsted-registered early years providers

Its Purpose

The statutory framework:

✔ Ensures children learn and develop well.
✔ Protects children’s health, welfare and safety.
✔ Promotes children’s school readiness and gives them a solid foundation for future learning.
✔ Ensures quality and consistency across childcare and early education settings.
✔ Encourages partnership working between practitioners and parents/carers.
✔ Supports inclusion and equality of opportunity for every child.