Early Years Foundation Stage
Welcome to the Early Years Foundation Stage at GNS, where we nurture curiosity, independence, and bilingual skills in a supportive environment.
About
Early Years Foundation Stage
At GEMS Al Barsha National School, we take a unique approach to delivering the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework from England by creating a dual language approach. This approach has been tailored to support children in both Arabic and English, developing their foundation skills in both languages. In addition to our dual language approach, students can access our newly developed Desert Schools programme of learning.
We create a safe, happy and nurturing environment allowing students to flourish. Our students can become independent learners who are able to be curious, investigate and use critical thinking. Through a combination of carefully planned adult led activities and independent discovery students are able to develop in all areas of the EY Framework.
Meet our
EYFS Leader -
Laura Claridge
Laura has extensive teaching experience having taught in all primary key stages from the Foundation Stage to Key Stage 2. She graduated from Canterbury Christchurch University in 2006 with a BA Hons in Primary Education, specialising in Mathematics and History. Laura began her teaching career teaching in a small school in South East London.
In 2013, Laura moved to Dubai where she worked in another GEMS school for 8 years before joining GNS in 2021. Laura has held a number of leadership positions including Primary Assessment Leader, Head of FS2, Head of Year 1 and now Assistant Principal.
“I am passionate about the Foundation Stage and believe it should be the beating heart of a school.”
Explore Our
Early Years Curriculum
What does EYFS mean?
EYFS stands for the Early Years Foundation Stage. This Framework is from Birth to Five years old. At GNS, we provide Foundation Stage 1 for students who are 3 years old and Foundation Stage 2 for students who are 4 years old.
The EYFS Framework is set to ensure that all students develop well and have the skills ready to begin the National Curriculum of England, which begins in Year 1.
The EYFS Framework has seven areas of learning:
- Communication and Language (CLL)
- Physical Development (PD)
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the world (UTW)
- Expressive Arts and Design (EAD)
Within these seven areas of learning, there are three prime areas:
- Communication and Language (CLL)
- Physical Development (PD)
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
Why is attendance important in EYFS?
Attendance in Foundation Stage is crucial for establishing routines and key skills necessary for future education. Positive attendance ensures students are prepared for the rest of their school life, fostering strong relationships between parents and school, and supporting students' overall success.
Dual
language
Programme
At GNS, our Foundation Stage Dual Language Programme is essential for fostering bilingualism and cultural awareness from an early age.
Many students begin their journey speaking only Arabic, only English, or another language entirely. Our programme provides opportunities for students to access learning in both languages naturally through informal conversations and carefully planned activities.
With native English speaking teachers, Arabic speaking teaching assistants, and dedicated Arabic teachers, students are immersed in both languages, seamlessly transitioning between Arabic and English.
This approach not only enhances linguistic abilities but also promotes confidence and academic readiness.
Specific English and Arabic phonics lessons support language development, ensuring students make accelerated progress.
At GNS, we believe that bilingualism is an asset, and our Dual Language Programme is designed to cultivate true biliteracy, empowering students to thrive in an interconnected world.
Desert
School
The Desert School at GNS offers a unique learning experience for our Foundation Stage (FS) learners.
Similar to a forest school in the UK, it provides opportunities for students to develop technical, personal, and social skills through exploration and supported risk-taking. The Desert School fosters confidence and self-esteem through hands-on experiences in a natural setting.
At GNS, our Desert School has a special focus on the culture and natural environment of the UAE. Students learn about native flora and fauna, delve into the cultural heritage of the UAE, and engage with the environment in meaningful ways. This immersive approach not only enhances their understanding of the local ecosystem but also promotes a sense of belonging and respect for their surroundings.
The Desert School is an integral part of our curriculum, ensuring that our FS learners develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
frequently asked
questions
What age can my child start in the Foundation Stage at GNS?
Children can join FS1 from the age of 3 years and FS2 from 4 years, in line with the British curriculum age groups. Refer to our age placement guide for more information.
Is the EYFS programme at GNS bilingual?
Our Foundation Stage offers a bilingual approach, blending English and Arabic to build early language skills and cultural awareness. Our teaching assistants are fluent in Arabic supporting students in their learning of both languages.
How does GNS support my child’s transition from nursery to FS1?
Our nurturing, play-based environment ensures a smooth transition, fostering confidence, independence, and school-readiness through personalised care.
Why choose Early Years in school setting?
Choosing an Early Years school setting provides children with a strong foundation for their lifelong learning journey. Early Years education at GNS offers a structured, nurturing environment where children can develop essential social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills alongside an emphasis on academic progress.