Continuity of learning and curriculum links
Continuity of learning occurs when learning builds upon prior learning, through age-appropriate experiences and pedagogy. This is strengthened when early childhood educators and school teachers understand what and how children learn in both settings.
Why continuity of learning is important
For children transitioning into Kindergarten, continuity of learning contributes to a strong and successful start to school. When learning experiences build on children’s prior and current experiences, they feel secure, confident and connected to their new setting (The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia p.19).
When Kindergarten teachers know children’s strengths and interests and the learning environments they have come from, they can provide opportunities that enable them to feel comfortable and successful. Teachers can use this knowledge to provide learning opportunities and experiences that are familiar and reflective of the student's early learning environments.
‘A successful transition to school has the potential to positively impact a young child’s early learning and development as well as their future academic success' (Age-appropriate pedagogies for the early years of schooling: Foundation paper summary p.3)
The education continuum
Together the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and NSW syllabuses form an education continuum, guiding children’s learning from early childhood into school.
The curriculum links documents highlight how Early Stage 1 outcomes and content build on the foundational skills and knowledge developed in early childhood education settings.
Curriculum links – Resource for early childhood services (DOCX 110.9 KB) – For early childhood teachers and educators, organised according to the EYLF learning outcomes.
Curriculum links – Resource for schools (DOCX 112.5 KB) – For Kindergarten (Early Stage 1) teachers, organised according to the key learning areas.