Where Early Learning Begins with Wonder

Sunmarke’s Early Years Foundation Stage inspires independence, imagination and holistic development
through play, care and discovery.

A Joyful Beginning

Welcome to the Early Years Foundation Stage at Sunmarke a joyful, nurturing and inspiring beginning to your child’s education.

In FS1 and FS2, our children learn through an environment that celebrates curiosity, independence and imagination. Our teachers build warm, trusting relationships with every child, ensuring they feel safe, confident and excited to discover the world around them.

We believe the early years are magical — a time of wonder, exploration and rapid development. At Sunmarke, we honour this stage with a play-rich, inquiry-led approach that nurtures each child’s unique personality, strengths and potential.

“ We look forward to welcoming your child into a community where learning is joyful, meaningful and where amazing truly happens”

Mrs Linzi Hammond

Head of EYFS

Our Approach to Early Learning

A Play-Based, Inquiry-Led Approach

Learning in EYFS is shaped by children’s natural curiosity. Through a sophisticated play-based curriculum, students explore, question and discover at their own pace. Projects and themes evolve from children’s interests, making learning meaningful and engaging.

Our approach draws from:

The British EYFS framework
Reggio Emilia principles
Montessori-inspired independence
The Curiosity Approach™

Together, these create a holistic, balanced and enriching early years experience.

Our Early Years Promise

Sunmarke’s
A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.
Early Years Philosophy

Our EYFS philosophy nurtures the whole child through:

Autonomy

Children lead their learning through exploration and choice.

Mindset

Positive Education builds resilience and a Growth Mindset.

Academics

A balanced British EYFS curriculum forms strong foundations.

Zest

Joy and enthusiasm drive better learning.

Individuality

Learning is personalised to each child’s strengths and pace.

Nurture

A safe, caring environment supports emotional and social growth.

Grow

EYFS prepares children to become confident, capable lifelong learners.

Building Strong Foundations

Seven Areas of Learning

Our curriculum develops the whole child through the seven EYFS learning areas.

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Where Curiosity Takes Flight

Learning Through Play
& Project Exploration

Play is at the heart of all learning in FS1 and FS2.

Children learn through:

Sensory exploration
Imaginative role-play
Outdoor and nature-based learning
Music, Movement and Creative arts
Open-ended resources that inspire experimentation
Early literacy & numeracy through hands-on activities

Together, these create a holistic, balanced and enriching early years experience.

Project-based themes such as “I Believe I Can Fly,” “Somewhere Out There,” and “Up, Up and Away” ignite imagination and encourage deeper inquiry. Whether exploring planets or designing a castle, children develop critical thinking, collaboration and communication skills.