Depth vs Breadth | EYFS

EYFS definition

Depth and breadth describe two aspects of curriculum and learning. Breadth concerns the range of experiences, knowledge and skills offered. Depth concerns how securely children understand, connect and use what they learn. In the EYFS, the terms help practitioners consider both variety and meaningful revisiting.

How are depth and breadth connected?

A broad curriculum offers opportunities across the seven areas of learning. Depth can grow as children return to ideas, notice relationships, ask questions and use their understanding in different situations.

These are complementary considerations. The non-statutory Development Matters guidance gives particular weight to deepening understanding rather than rushing through many ideas superficially.

What might it look like in practice?

  • A toddler returns to filling containers, noticing more about size and capacity.
  • Preschool children explore a small quantity through games, stories and sharing objects.
  • Reception children revisit a building problem, changing their design after discussing what happened.

What does this mean for planning?

Adults may introduce something unfamiliar, extend an existing interest or make space for further practice. The choice depends on the learning purpose and what they notice about the children.

Depth does not always mean harder tasks, and breadth does not require a new theme every week. A familiar experience can offer fresh possibilities, with different support or challenge for individual children.

Further Guidance | Related Documents

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