EYFS: planning

Ofsted doesn't specify what your EYFS planning should look like. See how other schools have approached it and find resources from LAs to help you get started.

Last reviewed on 2 May 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 8607
Contents
  1. Ofsted doesn’t recommend a specific approach to planning
  2. See how other schools have approached it 
  3. See a planning example from a local authority

Ofsted doesn’t recommend a specific approach to planning

It’s up to you to determine and justify your approach. This is set out in paragraph 12 of the Ofsted inspection handbook for early years providers

However, the EYFS framework (paragraph 1.15, page 16) states that your planning must reflect on the different rates at which children are developing and allow you to adjust your practice appropriately.

Your planning should also cover the 7 areas of learning and development, as set out in the framework (paragraph 1.6, pages 8 to 10). See our summary of the changes to the EYFS framework, effective from September 2021.

See how other schools have approached it 

Maintained school in Buckinghamshire 

It sets out how the school will meet the early learning goals (ELGs) by setting smaller objectives for each half term. For example, to meet the