What is The Foundation Stage? With links to all the documents issued by QCA
On 1st April 1998, all English and Welsh LEAs produced an Early Years Development Plan, which outlined their authorities' plans for providing places for 4 year olds and ideas for introducing places for 3 year olds within 1 to 2 years. Since then, we have seen the introduction of government funded sessions for all 3 and 4 year olds, administered by the Local Education Authority. The LEAs also provide the training for providers/practitioners in the statutory, private and voluntary sectors.
The grants sessions are all based on the document published by QCA which stands for Qualifications and Curriculum Authority) entitled 'Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage 3 to 5.'
This comes under six headings.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development.
Communication, Language and Literacy.
Knowledge and Understanding of the World.
To download the full guidance document, click here. (974Kb)
Click on any of the links above to download the QCA details on each section. This will be in PDF (Adobe Acrobat PDF) format. You will require Adobe Reader version 4 or above, which should be on your computer. If not, download a free copy of Adobe Reader from their site.
The Foundation Stage was introduced as a distinct phase of education for children aged 3 to 5 in September 2000. The guidance applies to all schools with nursery and reception classes and to early years settings receiving nursery education grant funding.
Feedback via our email: rainbownursery@raunds.org