Learning Through a Continuous Provision Approach – Strengthening Early Years Teaching

Stronger Practice Hub Event

Play is fundamental to how young children learn, develop and make sense of the world around them. Aligned with the DfE’s Best Start in Life vision, this session explores how a continuous provision approach can create rich, inclusive and engaging opportunities for all children to learn through play.

Drawing on research and evidence-informed practice, participants will explore how continuous provision supports children’s learning and development across the EYFS. We will consider how enabling indoor and outdoor environments can be carefully designed to promote curiosity, independence, language development, thinking and problem-solving.

The session will also examine the role of the educator as a skilled play partner, exploring how high-quality interactions and responsive teaching can deepen children’s learning, extend their interests and support progress through play.

Participants will:

• Understand the principles and research underpinning a continuous provision approach.
• Explore how enabling environments support learning, development and wellbeing.
• Consider the role of play in supporting children’s knowledge, skills and understanding.
• Reflect on the role of the adult as an effective play partner.
• Develop strategies to create high-quality learning experiences that contribute to giving every child the best start in life.

This session is suitable for practitioners and leaders who want to strengthen their understanding of playful learning and develop effective continuous provision that meets the needs of all children.