The Early Years Learning Framework

All early childhood services across Queensland are obligated to follow the national Early Years Learning Framework, a curriculum framework that outlines the key learning outcomes for all children in early childhood settings under the National Quality Framework.  The framework outlines the key practices that support the best outcomes for young children. The outcomes are:

  • Children have a strong sense of identity
  • Children are connected with and contribute to their world
  • Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
  • Children are confident and involved learners
  • Children are effective communicators

Within the framework, children will learn science and maths concepts as they observe, investigate, discover, compare, classify, create, predict, explain, verify and analyse. Children will develop language and literacy skills, not just through spoken word, but also through painting, drawing, sculpture, writing, music, songs, movement, stories, role play, posters, puppets and many open ended questions. Art, music and dance provide many opportunities for creative expression with a focus on the process discovery, interpretation, exploration and imagination.

The curriculum at Play Patch Early Learning Centre is built around a play-based program, focused on the interests of young children and also the intentional planning undertaken by the educational team. Play provides opportunities for children to learn as they discover, create, improvise and imagine. Play and learning are entwined in such a way that it is difficult to separate. What we know is that when children play with other children they create social groups, test out ideas, challenge each other’s thinking and build new understandings.

The Early Years Learning Framework: The framework forms the foundation for ensuring that children in all early childhood education and care settings experience quality teaching and learning. It has specific emphasis on play-based learning.

This diagram shows the integrated connections of the Vision, Principles, Practices and Learning Outcomes that centre on children’s learning, development and wellbeing. Belonging, Being and Becoming overlap all these elements.

View EYLF info Booklet (2mb Pdf)