Foundation Stage

Age 4–6

Primary school Years 1 and 2 make up the Foundation Stage. Children build on the learning experiences that they bring to school from home and/or pre-school. They learn through well-planned, challenging play that develops their interests, curiosity and creativity.

Subsection

Curriculum at Foundation Stage

The Northern Ireland Curriculum aims to empower young people to achieve their potential and to make informed and responsible decisions throughout their lives. The learning opportunities provided should help young people to develop as individuals, contributors to society and contributors to the economy and environment.

The statutory curriculum in Foundation Stage is set out under the following Areas of Learning and Whole Curriculum Skills and Capabilities.

The Development Pathway

Latest News

We're Recruiting for a Director of Curriculum and Assessment

Published: 20/06/2025, 3:30pm

CCEA is seeking a Director of Curriculum and Assessment to join the senior leadership team, providing inspirational leadership and contributing to the achievement of CCEA’s vision, mission and strategies.

Appointment of Chairperson and Members to the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessments (CCEA)

Published: 31/01/2025, 11:30am

Education Minister Paul Givan has announced the appointment of Mrs Deborah O’Hare to the post of Chairperson of the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA).

New app launched to help students develop lifesaving skills in CPR and AED

Published: 13/11/2024, 10:15am

CCEA has created an engaging and interactive lifesaving application (app) in partnership with the Department of Education and Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

Past CCEA Events

There are currently no events scheduled. Here are some that CCEA recently held:

  • 26 Mar

    CCEA GCSE Mathematics Support Event

    Corr's Corner Hotel315 Ballyclare RoadNewtownabbeyBT36 4TQ
  • 27 Mar

    Primary - Key Stage 3: 'Whet your Appetite with a Webinar' - Group Work – What is it and how to do it better (CCEA - Curriculum)

    Online Webinar
  • 02 Apr

    CCEA GCE Mathematics/Further Mathematics Support Event

    Corr's Corner Hotel315 Ballyclare RoadNewtownabbeyBT36 4TQ
  • 02 Apr

    CCEA A2 EEP Webinar A2 Geography

    WEBINAR
  • 04 Apr

    CCEA GCE Mathematics/Further Mathematics Support Event

    Glenavon Hotel52 Drum RoadCookstownBT80 8JQ