Early Years
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A Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5

Note on curriculum changes

The new Curriculum for Excellence guidance will eventually replace A Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5, and extend the approaches used in pre-school into the early years of primary.

Our section on Curriculum for Excellence has more information on what you can do now to prepare for the transition.


Download A Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5

Picture of A Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5

This document provides advice and guidance on the learning and development needs of young children. It applies to centres involved in the education of children aged 3 to 5. There is a recognition of the role parents play in education, the learning which takes place prior to pre-school and the learning taking place outwith early years settings.

You can purchase 'A Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5' as a print publication or you can download it from this website.

PDF iconPDF file: A Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5 (469 KB)

The document contains the following sections:

  • Section 1: The importance of pre-school education
  • Section 2: Key aspects of children's development and learning
  • Section 3: Promoting effective learning
  • Section 4: Children as individuals

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Updated on: 25 June 2009 The LTS Online Service is funded by the Scottish Government.