At Giggles and More Nursery, our Foundation Stage (FS1 & FS2) programme lays the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, we provide a rich, play-based curriculum where children aged 3 to 5 years explore, imagine, and grow in a joyful and stimulating environment.
At this stage, children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them and begin to build essential skills in communication, creativity, problem-solving, and independence — preparing them for a smooth and confident transition to school.
Our curriculum continues to nurture the three prime areas of learning — Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED) — while expanding into the four specific areas: Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design. Together, these seven areas ensure that every child’s growth is balanced, meaningful, and full of joy.
In Communication and Language, children refine their speaking, listening, and understanding skills through stories, discussions, and imaginative play. Practitioners encourage rich conversations, introducing new vocabulary and helping children express their thoughts with confidence. Group activities, circle time, and storytelling sessions nurture listening, empathy, and early comprehension skills.
Physical Development continues to thrive as children gain better control, coordination, and confidence. Outdoor play, dancing, and movement games build strength and balance, while fine motor activities such as cutting, drawing, and writing prepare children for early literacy. Our curriculum also encourages healthy habits, teaching children about nutrition, hygiene, and the importance of physical activity.
In Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED), we help children develop positive relationships, self-awareness, and resilience. Through cooperative play, sharing, and problem-solving, they learn empathy, teamwork, and respect for others. Practitioners guide children gently as they manage emotions, make choices, and take pride in their achievements — nurturing confident and kind young learners.
The specific areas of learning take centre stage in the Foundation Stage. In Literacy, children develop a love for reading and writing through phonics-based activities, storytelling, and mark-making. They begin to recognise sounds, letters, and familiar words, building early reading and writing skills. In Mathematics, they explore numbers, shapes, patterns, and problem-solving through hands-on play — counting blocks, sorting objects, or exploring everyday maths in the world around them.
Understanding the World encourages curiosity as children explore nature, technology, and different cultures. They observe changes in their environment, learn about community roles, and begin to understand the wider world. Expressive Arts and Design allow children to explore creativity through music, dance, painting, role play, and imaginative expression — celebrating individuality and imagination in every form.
Our qualified early years educators observe and plan for each child’s individual progress, ensuring that every activity is purposeful, inclusive, and engaging. We follow the Characteristics of Effective Learning — Playing and Exploring, Active Learning, and Creating and Thinking Critically — to support children in becoming enthusiastic, reflective, and independent learners.
At Giggles and More Nursery, our Foundation Stage provides the perfect balance of learning and play. We celebrate each child’s curiosity, creativity, and confidence — ensuring they are happy, capable, and fully prepared for their exciting next step into primary school.