Early Years Curriculum

A Balanced and Inspiring Start to Learning

At Tower College, our Early Years curriculum is carefully designed to give every child the best possible foundation for their education. Covering both Pre-School (age 3+) and Reception (age 4–5), our approach blends structured learning with imaginative play, helping children to develop the skills, confidence and curiosity they need to flourish.

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, a national standard for early education in the UK. Through purposeful, age-appropriate activities, we nurture the whole child – intellectually, emotionally, socially and physically.

The Seven Areas of Learning

The EYFS is divided into seven key areas of learning and development:

1. Personal, Social and Emotional Development

Helping children build positive relationships, manage emotions, and develop self-confidence and resilience.

2. Communication and Language

Encouraging children to express themselves clearly, listen to others, and expand their vocabulary through conversation, storytelling and role-play.

3. Physical Development

Focusing on fine and gross motor skills through movement, dance, play and outdoor activities, alongside self-care and independence.

4. Literacy

Introducing early reading and writing through phonics, storytime, mark-making, and vocabulary-building activities.

5. Mathematics

Developing a solid understanding of number, pattern, shape and space through interactive and visual learning.

6. Understanding the World

Encouraging curiosity about the world through exploration of nature, history, geography and simple scientific ideas.

7. Expressive Arts and Design

Nurturing creativity through art, music, imaginative play, construction, dance and drama.

Our Teaching Approach

Learning in the Early Years is carefully structured, yet always playful and engaging. Our experienced staff observe, assess and plan for each child’s needs and interests, ensuring that they are supported and appropriately challenged.

We use indoor and outdoor learning environments to promote curiosity and independence, and our small class sizes allow for personalised attention throughout the day.

Key teaching strategies include:

Daily phonics and early maths
Story-led themes and topic-based exploration
Practical, hands-on activities
Child-led learning opportunities
Group discussion and circle time
Regular progress monitoring and communication with families

As children progress into Reception, they are gradually introduced to more formal routines, preparing them confidently for Key Stage 1 without compromising creativity or emotional wellbeing.

Learning Through Enrichment

Our curriculum is enriched by weekly activities such as:

Welly Wednesdays (outdoor learning)
Yoga and movement
Seal Club (social and emotional awareness)
Music, dance and drama
Nature walks and seasonal crafts
Sports and games with specialist coaches
Swimming introduced in Reception or Year 1, as appropriate

These activities complement academic learning while developing essential social, emotional and physical skills.

Next Steps

To learn more about how our Early Years curriculum supports your child’s development and prepares them for a happy, successful school life, we invite you to arrange a visit or explore our Early Years page.

For details on admissions into Pre-School or Reception, visit our Admissions page or contact the school office at office@towercollege.com or 0151 426 4333.

We look forward to welcoming your family to Tower College.