The Vista Approach: Nurturing Lifelong Learners

The Vista curriculum is grounded in the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and aligns with the guidance provided by Birth to 5 Matters. It emphasises both the Characteristics of Effective Learning and the seven Areas of Learning and Development, ensuring a holistic, child-centred approach to early education.

At the heart of the Vista curriculum lies a commitment to fostering children’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. By integrating the three key Characteristics of Effective Learning:

• Playing and Exploring – engaging with new experiences,
• Active Learning – showing persistence and concentration, and
• Creating and Thinking Critically – developing ideas and making links,

children are encouraged to think independently, explore deeply, and develop confidence and resilience in their learning.

Holistic Development Through the Seven Areas of Learning

Vista ensures comprehensive development by embedding all seven Areas of Learning and Development outlined in the EYFS:

• Communication and Language
• Physical Development
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

These areas are woven throughout daily routines and purposeful play, helping children make meaningful connections across knowledge domains.

Child-Centred and Contextual Learning

Vista recognises every child as unique. Our approach is flexible and responsive, adapting to children’s interests, developmental stages, and the setting’s context. This ensures learning is always relevant, engaging, and inclusive, meeting children where they are and helping them progress confidently.

Emphasis on Play-Based Learning

Play is at the core of the Vista curriculum. Through carefully planned and spontaneous play, children develop language, social skills, problem-solving strategies, and emotional regulation. This supports the EYFS commitment to learning through play as a powerful driver of development.

Strong Partnerships with Families

We believe that children thrive when schools and families work in partnership. The Vista approach builds strong, trusting relationships with parents and carers to ensure continuity between home and school, celebrating each child’s learning journey together.

In summary, the Vista curriculum offers a broad, balanced, and inspiring early years experience—nurturing curiosity, supporting progress, and preparing children to be confident, capable learners for life.