The Importance of FS Learning

What makes learning in EYFS different at GNS?

At GEMS Al Barsha National School, we take a unique approach to delivering the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework from England by creating a dual language approach. This approach has been tailored to support children in both Arabic and English, developing their foundation skills in both languages. In addition to our dual language approach, students are able to access our newly developed Desert Schools programme of learning. 

We create a safe, happy and nurturing environment allowing students to flourish. Our students are able to become independent learners who are able to be curious, investigate and use critical thinking. Through a combination of carefully planned adult led activities and independent discovery students are able to develop in all areas of the Framework.

What does Dual Language learning mean? 

Many students begin their journey in Foundation stage speaking only Arabic, only English, or for some another language entirely. Our provision provides opportunities for students to be able to access learning in both languages and develop these naturally through informal conversations and carefully planned activities by the adults within our Foundation Stage Team. Within our foundation stage team, with a class teacher who is a native English speaker, Arabic speaking teaching assistants as well as learning Arabic from an Arabic Teacher. In addition to separate Arabic and English lessons, our Arabic teacher and English class teacher will teach alongside each other in a dual language approach, changing seamlessly from Arabic to English and back again. This allows the students to be immersed in both languages, becoming a natural part of their environment and the ability to change from one to another.

In addition to our dual language lessons, specific English lessons are taught in English and Arabic phonics taught in phonics, however staff are always available to translate for students who need additional support.With this approach, students make accelerated progress in Foundation Stage.

What is Desert School Learning? 

Desert school resembles what would be a forest school in the UK. It offers opportunities for students to learn technical, personal and social skills and support exploration and supported risk taking.  It develops confidence and self esteem through hands on experience in a natural setting. The Desert School at GEMS Al Barsha National School has a unique focus on the culture and natural environment of the UAE. The children learn about native flora and fauna and delve into the cultural heritage of the UAE. 

What does EYFS mean? 

Students in Foundation Stage are learning the routines and key skills to be successful in their future education. To prepare students for the rest of their school life, positive attendance is necessary.

We value the relationships we build between parents and school and know this is necessary for a successful start to school. We will work alongside parents to ensure that students are in school on time and are only absent when a student is unwell.

EYFS stands for the Early Years Foundation Stage. This Framework is from birth to five years old, however we provide Foundation Stage 1 for students who are 3 years old and will turn 4 years old in that academic year and Foundation Stage 2 for students who will turn 5 years old during that academic year.

The EYFS Framework is set to ensure that all students develop well and have the skills ready to begin the National Curriculum of England, which begins in Year 1.

The EYFS Framework has seven areas of learning:

• Communication and Language (CLL)
• Physical Development (PD)
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the world (UTW)
• Expressive Arts and Design (EAD)

Within these seven areas of learning, there are three prime areas:

• Communication and Language (CLL)
• Physical Development (PD)
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)

The prime areas are vital to ensure that students can access all the other areas of learning and be able to thrive in their day-to-day life. These areas are a key focus in the beginning of the academic year in particular, and will continue to be a focus throughout the year.

Students are taught through active learning. The classroom and outdoor environment is carefully planned to provoke curiosity and enquiry, allowing students to lead their own learning. Teachers will enhance this learning through skilled questioning or planned activities to develop the students at GNS.

Why is attendance important in EYFS? 

Students in Foundation Stage are learning the routines and key skills to be successful in their future education. To prepare students for the rest of their school life, positive attendance is necessary.

We value the relationships we build between parents and school and know this is necessary for a successful start to school. We will work alongside parents to ensure that students are in school on time and are only absent when a student is unwell.

Sarah Lewis

Head of Primary