Curriculum and Learning
At Nestlings, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – the framework that sets the standard for how young children learn, develop, and are cared for from birth to five. Every activity, routine, and interaction is designed around how young children actually learn best: through play.
The seven areas of learning
The EYFS curriculum is built around seven areas of learning, split into two groups. Children progress through these areas at their own pace, with our team observing, guiding, and adapting activities to support each child's individual development across all seven.
Prime learning areas
Prime areas are the foundations every child needs first – the building blocks everything else grows from:
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Specific learning areas
Specific areas build on those foundations as children grow in confidence:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Why play matters
Play isn't a break from learning at Nestlings – it is how young children learn.
As the Department for Education puts it: "Play is essential for children's development, building their confidence as they learn to explore, relate to others, set their own goals, and solve problems. Children learn by leading their own play, and by taking part in play and learning that is guided by adults." (DfE, 2024)
That's exactly the balance we strike – children lead much of their own play, following their own curiosity and interests, while our team steps in with gentle guidance, new ideas, and the occasional nudge to try something new.
A day built around development
Our daily routines are designed with development in mind, not just structure for its own sake. From arrival and free play, to snack time, story time, outdoor learning, and quiet moments in between, each part of the day offers a different way for children to grow – socially, physically, and emotionally, as well as academically.
Getting to know how your child learns is an ongoing process, not a one-off assessment. Our team continually observes each child at play and at rest, using what we see to identify their next steps and plan activities that meet them exactly where they are.
This means your child's learning is never generic – it's shaped around who they are, what they're curious about, and what they're ready to try next.
Learning together, with Tapestry
We use Tapestry, an online learning journal, to keep you connected to your child's day at Nestlings. You'll be able to see photos, observations, and updates on what your child has been learning and enjoying – and you can share moments from home too, so we can build a fuller picture of your child's development together.
It's a genuine two-way partnership: the more we both share, the better we can support your child's learning, both at nursery and at home.
