Planning Without Paperwork | EYFS

EYFS definition

Planning without paperwork is an informal phrase for making thoughtful educational decisions without routinely producing elaborate written activity plans. In the EYFS, it usually emphasises knowing children, preparing opportunities and responding through professional judgement, with recording used where it is helpful or required.

What does the phrase describe?

Planning remains an active process: considering what children need, what they might learn and how adults can support them. Some decisions are discussed or acted on directly; others benefit from a brief note.

The phrase does not name an official EYFS planning system or mean that written planning is never useful.

What might it look like in practice?

  • A childminder prepares a familiar resource after noticing renewed interest.
  • Colleagues discuss an adjustment to help a child participate.
  • A practitioner responds during play, then reflects on what happened.
  • A team keeps a short shared note when continuity between adults would help.

The amount and format of optional planning documentation can vary with the setting and purpose.

Does it mean keeping no records?

No. Optional planning paperwork is separate from required safeguarding, welfare and assessment records. For example, the EYFS progress check at age two includes a written summary.

Reducing routine planning notes does not remove those duties. Useful records can also support communication with families, continuity of care and agreed individual support.

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