EYFS Prime and Specific Areas
The EYFS framework at DBF encompasses both prime and specific areas of learning to ensure holistic development. The prime areas include Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social, and Emotional Development, which are foundational for children’s learning and future success. The specific areas build on these foundations and include Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design. Our balanced approach ensures that each child receives a well-rounded early education, tailored to their individual needs and interests.
Characteristics of Effective Teaching and Learning
At DBF, our EYFS framework is guided by the characteristics of effective teaching and learning, which include Playing and Exploring, Active Learning, and Creating and Thinking Critically. These characteristics encourage children to engage with the world around them, fostering curiosity and enthusiasm. By promoting hands-on experiences, perseverance, and problem-solving skills, we help children become confident and capable learners, ready to tackle new challenges and opportunities.
Wellbeing Leuven Scales
At DBF, we prioritize the holistic development of our students, recognizing the vital role that wellbeing plays in their overall growth. To ensure that every child thrives emotionally and socially, we utilize the Leuven scales, developed by Dr. Ferre Laevers, to closely monitor their wellbeing and involvement throughout their time with us. By tracking these key indicators, we can tailor our support and interventions to meet the unique needs of each child, creating a nurturing environment where they feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
EYFS Prime and Specific Areas
At DBF, our bespoke Singing for Learning program is led by our performing arts and Arabic teachers. Each day, the children gather as a year group for 15 minutes to sing a variety of songs with actions in both English and Arabic. This program offers numerous benefits:
Happiness and Success: Singing releases endorphins, making children feel happier and more successful learners.
Calm and Relaxation: It also releases oxytocin, a natural stress reliever, helping children feel calm and relaxed.
Physical Health: Deep breathing during singing acts as a ‘workout’ for children’s lungs and promotes good posture, boosting their confidence.
Community and Wellbeing: Singing as a group fosters friendships and a sense of safety and well-being.
Cognitive Development: It supports the development of concentration and memory.
Language Acquisition: It helps our EAL children learn English quickly and assists all children and staff in learning Arabic.
Knowledge Retention: Singing aids in remembering useful facts, such as the names of the seven Emirates of the UAE.
Performance and Memories: Singing provides opportunities for performance, creating fond memories that will last a lifetime.
Specialist subjects
At DBF, children benefit from three specialist subjects taught by our highly qualified specialist teachers. They participate in performing arts and music on rotation, as well as Arabic and PE/swimming. This diverse curriculum ensures a well-rounded education, allowing students to explore their interests and develop a wide range of skills under expert guidance.
Trips and visitors
Throughout the year, DBF enhances our curriculum with a variety of visitors and trips designed to extend our children’s learning experiences. Our dedicated team carefully plans these enriching activities, which are then shared with parents to keep them informed and involved. This approach ensures that our students gain valuable real-world insights and diverse educational opportunities.
Celebrations
At DBF, we proudly celebrate the diverse cultures of our community. Through events such as International Day and our end-of-year shows, we honor and represent the rich heritage of our students. These celebrations foster a sense of inclusion and appreciation for the many backgrounds that make up our vibrant school community.
ECAs
At DBF, we offer a variety of extracurricular activities (ECAs) provided by our dedicated staff team each week. These activities are free of charge and available to all children, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore new interests and develop additional skills in a supportive environment.
ASAs
Additionally, we offer a range of After School Activities (ASAs) provided by external experts. These activities cover a wide array of interests and skills, giving parents a variety of options to choose from when signing up their children. This ensures that every student can find something they enjoy and benefit from, enhancing their overall school experience.
