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# Foundation Years

Latest news, policy and resources for early years professionals

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Newsflash - Working or volunteering in regulated activity with children](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e311c82&cd=195f6ae4f1786a3&m=0) - Due to the Crime and Policing Act 2026, there is a change to regulated activity which will come into force in September 2026. The change affects settings which rely on volunteers. This is because of the removal of the supervision exemption. From 1 September 2026, all volunteers engaging in regulated activity will need an enhanced
- [Newsflash - Become an Early Years Pupil Premium Champion](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d956539&cd=195f6ae4f154483&m=0) - Apply for a unique funded opportunity, making a difference and growing your network. This 18-month programme is your chance to improve practice in your area and shape national guidance. It includes a £44k grant for your current employer to cover your existing responsibilities. It’s a key part of the Department for Education's EYPP Test and
- [Exploring Early Maths with Best Start with Maths](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/06/exploring-early-maths-with-best-start-with-maths/) - Supporting children's maths development starts with the everyday experiences, conversations and play opportunities that take place throughout the early years. Early Childhood Maths Group have developed a range of free resources to support early maths learning. The resources encourage children to explore maths ideas through meaningful interactions and playful experiences, helping to develop their understanding
- [Pathways to Progress: Stronger Practice in Early Language, Literacy & Mathematics - Part 2](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/07/pathways-to-progress-stronger-practice-in-early-language-literacy-mathematics-part-2/) - This vodcast explores simple and effective ways to help strengthen everyday practice and support children's learning. This vodcast is part 2 of 3. Seb Thorpe (Begin Bright) is joined by Joanne Mobbs and Vicki Springhall, (Department for Education) to provide key updates relating to early Language, Literacy and Mathematics; Dr Catherine Gripton, (Early Childhood Maths
- [Newsflash - Joint statement regarding asbestos contaminated consumer products](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20702c0a&cd=195f6ae4f11ba43&m=0) - The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have shared a Joint Statement regarding potential asbestos contamination in sand-containing consumer products and product recalls. This statement outlines the risks relating to asbestos exposure, and the zero-tolerance approach to asbestos in consumer products taken in the
- [Newsletter - New guidance and training to support inclusion](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f1b7aad&cd=195f6ae4f0f39a1&m=0) - Government plans for SEND Inclusive Early Years Fund: new guidance for early years settings Inclusion by design: creating accessible environments in early years settings New guidance on inclusion bases Specialist support: Experts at Hand Training for teachers: assistive technology training now available for all staff SEND CPD offer
- [Foundation Years newsletter archive](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/08/foundation-years-newsletter-archive/) - Every month, Foundation Years sends a monthly news bulletin to our subscribers, featuring the latest news, events and announcements from the sector. This provides a space to share information and best practices, and we invite contributions from relevant organizations. You can sign up to receive our newsletter, or if you would like to contribute to
- [Newsflash - Government advice on working with children before and during hot weather.](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20852b6d&cd=195f6ae4f0b97f1&m=0) - The department would like to remind all settings and practitioners working with children of the advice provided by government to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children and staff in hot weather. This should underpin communications to parents and carers. Looking after children and those in early years settings before and during hot weather: teachers
- [Newsflash - Call for evidence: Screen use by children in reception](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e9ee7e4&cd=195f6ae4f07e52a&m=0) - The DfE has launched a call for evidence on screen use by children. We are keen to gather evidence to support future policy and guidance on children’s screen use in reception (age 4-5 years). To find out more or share your relevant evidence, please provide it here: Screen use by children aged 5 to 16 -
- [Setting up an Early Years provider business](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/05/setting-up-an-early-years-provider-business/) - Caveat: please note this page is not a comprehensive overview of the laws and regulations businesses must follow but is intended to provide useful information for early years providers. For advice on wider business support, please see Business.gov.uk – Find the right support for your business. The sections regarding finance, human resources, and the marketing videos
- [SEND Reform: What is Being Proposed for Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/05/send-reform-what-is-being-proposed-for-early-years/) - The government has set out a significant programme of reform to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system. These proposals are intended to improve outcomes for children and families, strengthen early support, and create a more consistent and inclusive system across education. A central part of this is support provided by Best Start Family
- [Newsflash - Three Digital Tools to Empower Parents](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e6973d4&cd=195f6ae4f0118b3&m=0) - DfE and No10 will be launching three digital tools to empower parents to search for local childcare, estimate childcare fees, and check what support they're entitled to. What’s launching? On 26th May we will be announcing the launch of these tools as a ‘beta’. This means families will be able to start using the tools while we continue to take on feedback
- [Newsflash - Support your practice with free Early Years Child Development training](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e0631be&cd=195f6ae4efeede3&m=0) - The Department for Education’s Early years child development training is a free, online programme designed by early years experts to support practitioners working with children from birth to reception. This flexible online training will help you to: Build and strengthen your child development knowledge Get practical advice and ideas to support children in your setting, including reception classes Reflect on your
- [Pathways to Progress: Stronger Practice in Early Language, Literacy & Mathematics - Part 1](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/05/pathways-to-progress-stronger-practice-in-early-language-literacy-mathematics-part-1/) - This vodcast explores simple and effective ways to help strengthen everyday practice and support children's learning. This vodcast is part 1 of 3. Seb Thorpe (Begin Bright) is joined by Joanne Mobbs and Vicki Springhall, (Department for Education) to provide key updates relating to early Language, Literacy and Mathematics; Dr Catherine Gripton, (Early Childhood Maths
- [Newsflash - Asbestos in consumer products information page](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b2117269d&cd=195f6ae4efb194a&m=0) - The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) have published a page on gov.uk containing guidance for consumers and businesses on consumer products containing asbestos. The page provides disposal guidance for both businesses and consumers, including early years settings, along with health information. Settings should review the linked list of contaminated products that are subject to recalls and
- [Newsflash - DfE announces 9,500 fully funded Early Years SENCO training places from April 2026](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20774b22&cd=195f6ae4ef7fc6a&m=0) - As part of the government’s Best Start in Life strategy, to break down barriers to opportunity and improve early identification and support for children with SEND, the Department for Education is very pleased to announce that Best Practice Network (BPN) has been selected as our delivery partner to provide an additional 9,500 Early Years SENCO
- [Guidance to support the EYFS](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/09/updated-guidance-to-support-the-eyfs/) - Please be advised this resource is over 5 years old. You may choose to use https://beststartinlife.gov.uk/ to supplement links within the documents that are currently unavailable. What to expect in the EYFS DfE has published a guide for parents, produced by Sheringham Nursery School and Children’s Centre - 'What to expect in the Early Years
- [Newsflash -  Pathways to Progress: Stronger Practice in Early Language, Literacy and Mathematics](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20177e2b&cd=195f6ae4ef44732&m=0) - We’re thrilled to announce an exciting online event designed for early years educators: Pathways to Progress: Stronger Practice in Early Language, Literacy and Mathematics 📅 When? Thursday 14 May 📍 Where? Microsoft Teams ⏰ Time? 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM What to expect: ✨ Expert speakers, including representatives from BookTrust, Early Childhood Maths Group and DfE. ✨ Gain valuable insights to improve practice
- [Newsflash - Share your experience identifying special educational needs and support](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1cf8f533&cd=195f6ae4ef387c9&m=0) - The Department for Education is recruiting reception and primary teachers working in mainstream primary schools to participate in research. Purpose of the research To understand how special educational needs (SEN) are currently identified in schools and how support is selected to meet those needs. What the research involves 1 hour Microsoft Teams call in May
- [Newsflash - Further advice on safer sleep from the Department for Education](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20fbde3a&cd=195f6ae4eee3486&m=0) - This guidance, created in collaboration with the Lullaby Trust, provides advice to help early years providers create and maintain safer sleep environments for babies and young children in their care. It includes information on: Providing an appropriate sleep space for babies and children Safe use of cots, mattresses, bedding and sleep bags Supervising children while they
- [Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): Safer sleep requirements – Frequently Asked Question](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/04/early-years-foundation-stage-eyfs-safer-sleep-requirements-frequently-asked-question/) - Why is the Department for Education amending the sleeping arrangements section of the EYFS? The safety of our youngest children is our utmost priority and we continually monitor and review safeguarding requirements for early years settings to make sure children are kept as safe as possible. Tragically, there have been cases of children dying from
- [Newsflash - Starting Reception](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c8e9c42&cd=195f6ae4eecc169&m=0) - Starting school is an exciting milestone. To help make the transition into Reception as smooth and positive as possible we encourage you to share the following resources from Starting Reception with parents and carers: Starting Reception website Starting Reception Guide (PDF) Starting Reception is a free, practical online resource designed to support parents and carers
- [Newsflash - Help improve the ‘Check an early years qualification’ online service](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e919e59&cd=195f6ae4ee9eecb&m=0) - The Department for Education is inviting early years professionals to share their feedback on the ‘Check an early years qualification’ online service. If you’re a setting manager, childminder, or a practitioner, your experience matters. We would love to hear about your experience by completing the survey below. https://dferesearch.fra1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bvzLkfocZqIldye?Origin=newsflash Your feedback will help us understand what works well and where
- [Supporting Early Years Vocabulary Growth Through Meaningful Talk and Everyday Routines](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/03/supporting-early-years-vocabulary-growth-through-meaningful-talk-and-everyday-routines/) - Developing children’s vocabulary in their early years is essential for communication, confidence and long‑term learning. Of course, planned experiences matter, although many rich, language building moments often occur naturally during daily routines and interactions. These familiar, repeated experiences provide meaningful contexts for children to hear, practise and embed new vocabulary. EYFS Link Spoken language
- [Newsflash - OPSS issues product recalls](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1dc17574&cd=195f6ae4ee6703b&m=0) - On 03/02/2026 a newsflash went out related to The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) issuing a Product Recall to warn about a safety risk associated with the Hobbycraft Giant Box of Craft. As of 26 March, the number of recalled products is now 30 from more than 10 separate businesses. OPSS is working with local Trading
- [Newsflash - National roll out of Best Start Family Hubs and Healthy Babies – webinar for Stakeholders](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f81693c&cd=195f6ae4ee63989&m=0) - Join the Department for Education for a webinar, on Wednesday 8 April, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm, to introduce the new Best Start Family Hubs and Healthy Babies guidance, setting out the government's vision for transforming family and health support for children across England. This webinar will provide an overview of the programme's ambitions, the vision
- [Newsflash - Olivia Bailey, Minister for Early Education writes to early years sector on safer sleep requirements](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f85c3b3&cd=195f6ae4ee1a5a9&m=0) - Olivia Bailey, Minister for Early Education and Minister for Equalities at the Department for Education has written a letter to early years providers. The letter sets out the intention to amend the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, to clarify safeguarding requirements for children’s sleeping arrangements. The amendments will make safer sleep requirements explicit within
- [Olivia Bailey, Minister for Early Education Writes to Early Years Sector on Safer Sleep Requirements](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/03/olivia-bailey-minister-for-early-education-writes-to-early-years-sector-on-safer-sleep-requirements/) - Olivia Bailey, Minister for Early Education and Minister for Equalities at the Department for Education has written a letter to early years providers. The letter sets out the intention to amend the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, to clarify safeguarding requirements for children’s sleeping arrangements The amendments will make safer sleep requirements explicit within
- [Newsflash - Join the Minister for Early Education, Olivia Bailey for an Early Years SEND reform online event](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b21173c01&cd=195f6ae4edd5fef&m=0) - On Wednesday 22 April, the Minister for Early Years, Olivia Bailey will be answering your questions on the early years and SEND reform. Join Olivia Bailey, the Best Start in Life Champion, Sue Robb, alongside Sarah Ronan, Executive Director of the Early Education and Childcare Coalition, for a live online event about the government’s plans
- [Newsflash - Survey – CCTV and digital device usage in early years settings](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20b74e1e&cd=195f6ae4ed4445c&m=0) - In December 2025, the Secretary of State for education announced that she would appoint an expert panel to review how CCTV and digital devices are used in early years settings. The panel will provide recommendations to Government regarding whether CCTV should be mandated. It will also inform safeguarding guidance the Department will develop by setting
- [Sustainability Support Tailored to Early Years Settings](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/02/sustainability-support-tailored-to-early-years-settings/) - Across England, the Department for Education is making it easier for early years settings to take meaningful climate action. Through its Sustainability Support Programme, three fully funded initiatives, Sustainability Support for Education, Climate Ambassadors in partnership with Let's Go Zero, and the National Education Nature Park, work together to offer a joined-up package of free, practical support. Whether you’re just starting to think about
- [Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): Food Brought in from Home - Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/02/early-years-foundation-stage-eyfs-food-brought-in-from-home-frequently-asked-questions/) - This blog post answers some of the most frequently asked questions about food brought in from home in EYFS settings. You can also view this in a PDF document here. Q: Does the nutrition guidance apply to food brought from home? A: Working alongside parents and/or carers is essential to ensuring children are provided with
- [Newsflash - Share your experience recording SEND in a private nursery](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de782e854bc&cd=195f6ae4ec53469&m=0) - The Department for Education is carrying out research to understand how private nurseries record, monitor and share the needs, provision and progress of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This research will involve a 1-hour Teams call between Tuesday 17th February- Monday 23rd February Who can take part? We’re interested in speaking to those who are (all of the following): a SENCO or nursery manager working in a
- [Republication of Common Core of Skills and Knowledge for the Children’s and Young People’s Workforce](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2015/02/republication-of-common-core-of-skills-and-knowledge-for-the-childrens-and-young-peoples-workforce/) - This Common Core of Skills and Knowledge document sets out the basic skills and knowledge needed by people whose work (paid or voluntary) brings them into regular contact with children, young people and families. This advice is non-statutory. It was previously published by the Children’s Workforce Development Council and the (then) DfES.
- [Newsflash - Food Standards Agency asks parents and caregivers to check their infant formula as Danone recalls certain batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate branded infant formula](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20c7594a&cd=195f6ae4ec069ed&m=0) - The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is asking parents, early years settings and other caregivers to check their infant formula against specific batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate products listed in the Product Recall Information Notice published on Friday 6 February 2026. As you might have seen in media coverage and on social media, Danone’s
- [Newsflash - OPSS issues Product Recall on Hobbycraft Giant Box of Craft (PSD case number 2601-0364).](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1de9fc9d&cd=195f6ae4eb9d6e0&m=0) - The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a Product Recall to warn about a safety risk associated with the Hobbycraft Giant Box of Craft. The recall relates to vials of coloured sand included in the product, which may be contaminated with asbestos, a banned substance that poses a health risk even
- [Newsflash - Share your views on delivering entitlements to parents](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c75e352&cd=195f6ae4eb59c41&m=0) - DfE are conducting research to gather feedback on early years professional's experiences of delivering the following entitlements: the working parent (9 month - 4 years) universal 15 hours (3 - 4-year-olds) the 2-year-old disadvantaged entitlement We’d like to hear about your experiences and needs for delivering entitlements to understand how to improve the experience in
- [Newsflash - SEND training offer](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b202aea95&cd=195f6ae4eb18171&m=0) - On Friday 16 January, the Department for Education unveiled the most ambitious and comprehensive SEND training offer ever seen by the English education system – recognising the power of our workforce to transform children’s life chances. The new training offer will cover children with SEND from their earliest years, through to age 25, restoring parents’ confidence that their children
- [Whistleblowing in the Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2026/01/whistleblowing-in-the-early-years/) - Sue Asquith, Early Childhood Consultant explores what whistleblowing is and why it is so important. What is Whistleblowing? Whistleblowing, sometimes called ‘making a disclosure in the public interest’, is the activity of someone reporting wrongdoing. A whistle-blower is a person, (often, but not always, an employee), revealing information about activity within an organisation which is
- [Newsflash - Early Years Spring term activity for the National Year of Reading is now live!](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d68a783&cd=195f6ae4ea738ae&m=0) - The National Year of Reading is a bold, year-long Department for Education initiative delivered in collaboration with the National Literacy Trust. The Early Years offer will be a termly cycle of professional development and resources for educators, and memorable events for children. To get involved, all you need to do is choose your preferred sign-up
- [Newsflash - Share your experience as an Early Years Teacher - £50 thank you](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20886b9b&cd=195f6ae4ea738a7&m=0) - We're looking to speak with Early Years Teachers with EYTS, EYPS or QTS working in nursery settings about your experiences and the challenges you face in your role. We'd love to hear your perspective and get your feedback on some ideas we've been developing. Your insights would be incredibly valuable in helping us better understand
- [Newsflash - OPSS issues Safety Alert on baby sleep pillows](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1ff95459&cd=195f6ae4ea2c053&m=0) - The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a Safety Alert to warn about the risks associated with baby sleep pillows. The Safety Alert advises that baby sleep pillows should not be used, as they pose a risk of suffocation and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Babies should always be placed to sleep
- [Q&A: Supporting Children with SEND for Smooth Transitions](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/12/qa-supporting-children-with-send-for-smooth-transitions/) - On 23rd October 2025, Foundation Years held an online event on ‘Supporting Children with SEND for Smooth Transitions’. We explored how early years professionals can support children with SEND during transitions. You can find the event recording here. Below, you can find questions submitted during the presentations, along with their respective answers: [col type="1_2" class=""][toggle_content title="Would
- [List of Childminder Agencies](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/12/childminder-agencies-contacts/) - This list of childminder agencies (CMAs) provides contact information for CMAs that are open for applications. If you would like to register with a CMA, please contact them directly to find out about their application process. For more information about CMAs – including general information about registering with a CMA or becoming a CMA –
- [Newsflash - Ofsted reform and entitlements regulations](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fee85c7&cd=195f6ae4e9ec879&m=0) - On 10th November 2025, Ofsted introduced their new inspection framework and report cards with a five-point grading scale following the government’s commitment to remove overall effectiveness grades. These changes to inspection outcomes for all types of early years providers mean several early years regulations require updating so local authorities can continue to secure free childcare at
- [Family relationships](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2014/08/family-relationships/) - A good relationship between parents makes a big difference to a child, whether or not you are still living together. There are a wide range of experts, such as Relate, that provide relationship support to families who need it. In some areas there are relationship support sessions for new mums and dads to help them
- [Newsflash - Apply to become an Early Years Stronger Practice Hub](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d981810&cd=195f6ae4e9c3451&m=0) - Early Years Stronger Practice Hubs help early years settings and childminders adopt evidence-informed improvements, promote system leadership, and build networks for sharing effective practice. As one Hub explains: "It is a privilege to be an Early Years Stronger Practice Hub working with an incredible work force, helping to connect practitioners with the support, evidence and community
- [Supporting Early Years Wellbeing Through Climate Action: Why Your Setting Should Join the National Education Nature Park](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/12/supporting-early-years-wellbeing-through-climate-action-why-your-setting-should-join-the-national-education-nature-park/) - Early years educators play a crucial role in shaping children’s confidence, curiosity and wellbeing. At this vital stage of development, young children are building emotional resilience, social understanding, physical skills and their emerging sense of self. The adults who care for them provide the stable, nurturing foundations they need to thrive. Increasingly, early years settings
- [Newsflash - Reception Teachers: Participate in DfE Research](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d6e04f2&cd=195f6ae4e932131&m=0) - The Department for Education (DfE) is inviting Reception teachers and teaching assistants to take part in research on their experience of training and working in Reception. We want to learn more about what you do and what works for you to help us make future improvements! The research will be taking place between November 2025 and end
- [Newsflash - Supervised Toothbrushing Champions](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1cc22dd1&cd=195f6ae4e8c379b&m=0) - Are you an early years setting who would love to showcase the great work you are doing with supervised toothbrushing? We are looking for a range of settings who are taking part in supervised toothbrushing who are happy to be shared as an exemplar setting for the programme. This may be a new or established
- [Supporting Emotional Wellbeing in the Early Years: Building Resilience from the Start](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/11/supporting-emotional-wellbeing-in-the-early-years-building-resilience-from-the-start/) - Following on from World Mental Health Day last month, we are provided with a valuable opportunity to reflect on how we support emotional wellbeing in early years settings, for our youngest learners, colleagues and parents. The 2025 EYFS statutory framework places a strong emphasis on emotional development, self-regulation, and wellbeing, while the government’s Best Start in Life strategy reinforces the importance of early
- [Supporting Children with SEND for Smooth Transitions](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/10/supporting-children-with-send-for-smooth-transitions/) - This vodcast explores how early years professionals can support children with SEND during transitions. Seb Thorpe (Begin Bright) is joined by Harjit Athwal (Deputy Director, Early Years at the Department for Education) who will provide a short update on what the Best Start in Life Strategy that was implemented in September of this year means for
- [Policy](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/09/policy/) - [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/68c024cb8c6d992f23edd79c/Early_years_foundation_stage_statutory_framework_-_for_group_and_school-based_providers.pdf.pdf"]EYFS statutory framework for group and school-based providers[/button] An overview of the Core Principles of Early Years Education The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework sets the standard for learning, development, and care of children from birth to fiver years in England. It is designed to ensure
- [Policy Documents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/10/policy-documents/) - For group and school-based providers: Early years foundation stage statutory framework - Effective 01 September 2025 For childminders: Early years foundation stage statutory framework - Effective o1 September 2025
- [Newsflash - Help us understand how you check qualifications in early years](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fb6ce79&cd=195f6ae4e680cd2&m=0) - The Department for Education wants to hear from early years educators to understand how they check qualifications. Whether you're a setting manager, childminder, or an educator, your experience matters. We would love to hear your thoughts by completing the survey below. https://dferesearch.fra1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0k4DPGMvf8VWrS6 By sharing how you currently approach checking qualifications, you’ll help us design a
- [Healthy eating and safe food preparation](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/02/healthy-eating-and-safe-food-preparation/) - As those working in the early years sector will be aware, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework requires providers to take all necessary steps to keep children safe and well - and providers must be confident that those responsible for preparing and handling food in their setting are competent to do so. This
- [Newsflash - Answering your questions on food brought in from home (packed lunch) policies.](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f842405&cd=195f6ae4e6234a9&m=0) - Since September 2025, early years providers have been required to have regard to the Early Years Foundation Stage nutrition guidance. This guidance supports settings to meet the EYFS requirement that meals, snacks and drinks provided to children must be healthy, balanced and nutritious, whether meals are served in the setting or brought from home. This forms
- [Newsflash - EYFSP Best Practice](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de782d67ea3&cd=195f6ae4e5c879a&m=0) - From spring 2026, we will provide new written resources, videos and peer-to-peer sessions for schools, facilitated by local authorities. This is to help reception teachers carry out the EYFSP assessment with confidence and consistency. Best practice sharing As part of this support, we would like to share some examples of best practice at a headteacher
- [7 Effective Tips for Supporting Transitions in the Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/09/7-effective-tips-for-supporting-transitions-in-the-early-years/) - Transitions, whether starting nursery, moving rooms or preparing for school, can be exciting but also a little unsettling for young children. While many strategies are well known, this guide offers ten creative, child-centred ideas to help children feel secure, confident and understood. [col type="1_2" class=""][toggle_content title="Create a Transition Treasure Box" class="toggle box box_blue"] What it
- [Newsflash - How Martyn's Law will affect education settings](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20cc3929&cd=195f6ae4e57d092&m=0) - The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law became law 3 April 2025. The Government has published the below guidance for education settings, to provide information on how education settings including early years settings will be affected when this law is implemented. How Martyn’s Law will affect education settings - GOV.UK
- [Newsflash - Best Start in Life website and brand launch](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1dbbaa22&cd=195f6ae4e4e655f&m=0) - As part of our Plan for Change and our strategy to give every child the best start in life, on 1 September we launched a new Best Start in Life website. This improved support for families builds on the proud legacy of Sure Start and will help more children be ready to start school. The Best
- [Newsflash - The DfE's Big September Switch](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1ca1cba1&cd=195f6ae4e4e6282&m=0) - This September, we’re launching The Big September Switch, part of the Do Something Big campaign, to engage career changers – especially parents – to consider rewarding roles in early years. You can download and share the Early Years Careers Guide from our website, which is full of information to help people understand pathways into the sector.
- [Sensory Processing: What Everyone Needs to Know](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/09/sensory-processing-what-everyone-needs-to-know-2/) - Sue Asquith, Early Childhood Consultant explores sensory processing. The sensory system is how your body and brain process information to make sense of the world. Sensory systems are unique; we all need a bespoke mix of sensory input to feel regulated. Knowledge about sensory systems helps us to understand our own sensory needs, as well
- [Newsflash - Share your views on the early years workforce register](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1effcd8f&cd=195f6ae4e49b80f&m=0) - In July 2025, the Department for Education (DfE) published the Best Start in Life strategy where we committed to working with the sector to co-design and introduce a new professional register to put early years workers on a more professional footing and create clear paths for career progression, to drive up standards and professionalism among the
- [Newsflash - Starting school – free toilet training posters and handouts for early years settings and parents](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fe94a0e&cd=195f6ae4e46cd25&m=0) - With the upcoming school year, now is a good time to ensure children can confidently use the toilet on their own, to make their transition to reception easier. These downloadable posters and handouts aim to help parents with toilet training and help educators prepare children for using the toilet when they get to school. The
- [Understanding and Observing Play](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/08/understanding-and-observing-play/) - This blog post has been written by Dr Stella Louis. As educators, we know that play is more than just a fun activity for children - it's a powerful tool for learning and development. But have you considered that different kinds of play can have unique benefits for children's development? In this article, we'll explore different
- [Supervised Toothbrushing Programme in Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/08/supervised-toothbrushing-programme-in-early-years/) - This vodcast explores insights into the national Supervised Toothbrushing programme in early years. Seb Thorpe (Begin Bright) is joined by Laura Lindon (Department for Education) who will discuss the programme and wider early years priorities; and Claire Stevens (Department for Health and Social Care) who will provide an overview of the health outcomes the programme
- [Newsflash - Protecting against measles in early years settings](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b21448a20&cd=195f6ae4e3ac384&m=0) - The Department for Education and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have become aware some early years settings are attempting to protect children from measles through ‘COVID-style’ cleaning. While cleaning is good practice, it does not offer effective protection from measles. The MMR vaccine is the safest and most effective way to protect children and staff
- [Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Safeguarding Reforms 2025](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/07/early-years-foundation-stage-eyfs-safeguarding-reforms-2025/) - This vodcast explores the upcoming changes to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) safeguarding reforms that will come into force in September 2025. Seb Thorpe (Begin Bright) is joined by Laura Lindon (Department for Education) who will provide an overview of the key changes and policy intentions behind them, and is later joined by Caroline
- [Experience-Based Route (EBR) in Early Years Guide](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/05/experience-based-route-ebr-in-early-years-guide/) - This vodcast explores the experience-based route (EBR), a pathway for staff working in Early Years who don’t currently hold a full and relevant level 3 or above qualification to work in the staff:child ratios at level 3. EBR is a way to recognise those staff and give them the opportunity to work, and put their
- [Newsflash - Climate action plans for a sustainable future](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de7832a28eb&cd=195f6ae4e369c81&m=0) - The Department for Education expects all education settings to have a climate action plan by 2025. For help to develop and progress your climate action plan, register for free interactive workshops throughout July and August. We will guide you to identify key actions, engage colleagues, and access support to integrate sustainability into school life. There
- [Newsflash - Do Something Big campaign – advertising vacancies on Find A Job for summer recruitment activity](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c379a01&cd=195f6ae4e30e8e2&m=0) - The summer wave of the Do Something Big campaign is running until 14 September 2025, encouraging more people to explore a fulfilling career in early years and childcare. New adverts include 15-second social videos that challenge common barriers to joining the sector, alongside new content specifically designed to encourage more men to consider working in early years
- [Changes to Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) safeguarding requirements: September 2025](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/10/changes-to-early-years-foundation-stage-eyfs-safeguarding-requirements-september-2025/) - The early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework is mandatory for all early years settings. It sets the standards that all early years providers must meet to ensure that children learn and develop well, and are kept healthy and safe. This page explains why changes to the EYFS safeguarding requirements will be made, what
- [Newsflash - Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life strategy](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b21007b46&cd=195f6ae4e2e2eed&m=0) - Yesterday we published our 'Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life' strategy‘ which will bring together early years and family services, putting children's first years at the heart of work to improve life chances. This ambitious publication sets out the first steps in a decade of renewal, with government spending close to £1.5bn over the
- [Newsflash - Visit BBC CBeebies Parenting for free resources to support skills for starting school](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c8b8d77&cd=195f6ae4e2c2e45&m=0) - BBC CBeebies Parenting / Tiny Happy People, a service from BBC Children’s & Education, has a wealth of content for families to support the skills children need to start school. Check out the ‘Skills for Starting School’ collection page full of free content to share with families, from introducing the potty and toilet independence to language learning. The
- [Newsflash - Reception Staff Needed – We're interested in learning from you!](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c12b7a4&cd=195f6ae4e2c2ca1&m=0) - The Department for Education (DfE) is inviting Reception teachers and teaching assistants to take part in an important new research opportunity. We want to learn what works for you! We’re looking for staff who: - Work in Reception classes - Are either teachers or teaching assistant - Can share their views on Early Years Child
- [Making the Most of Summer in Early Years Settings](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/06/making-the-most-of-summer-in-early-years-settings/) - Summer is a brilliant time for early years settings to take learning outside and bring the EYFS to life. It’s a season full of opportunities to nurture wellbeing, encourage exploration and build resilience. With thoughtful preparation, settings can make the most of the warmer months while keeping children’s health, safety and inclusion front and centre.
- [Physical Activity in Early Years - Part 2](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/03/physical-activity-in-early-years-part-1/) - Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by Emalee Caton (Lead PANCo Tutor at NDNA) to discuss ways Early Years educators, settings and childminders can include and encourage physical activity with children in their settings. This vodcast explores the limitations of environments, whether that be the weather, access to space or time, and the
- [Physical Activity in Early Years - Part 1](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/04/physical-activity-in-early-years-part-2/) - Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by Sue Asquith (Early Childhood Consultant) to discuss ways Early Years educators, settings and childminders can include and encourage physical activity with children in their settings. This vodcast explores the limitations of environments, whether that be the weather, access to space or time. This vodcast is part
- [Newsflash - Protective Preparedness for Education Settings Webinars - Martyn’s Law](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1ed59b8c&cd=195f6ae4e25c492&m=0) - The Department for Education (DfE) in partnership with the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) invite you to the ‘Protective Preparedness For Education Settings’ a webinar focussed on counter terrorism protective security and preparedness for education settings. The DfE’s ‘Counter Terrorism Protect & Prepare Team’ will provide you with an overview and update on the
- [Event Questions - Nurturing Nutrition: Building Healthy Foundations in the Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/06/event-questions-nurturing-nutrition-building-healthy-foundations-in-the-early-years/) - On 22nd May 2025, Foundation Years held an online event on ‘Nurturing Nutrition: Building Healthy Foundations in the Early Years’. We explored how to create supportive food environments that foster positive eating habits and long-term health for children in their early years. You can find the event recording here. Below, you can find questions submitted
- [Newsflash - Calling All Early Years Educators – Join Our Research Study!](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e99236d&cd=195f6ae4e22e993&m=0) - The Department for Education (DfE) is inviting early years educators to take part in an exciting new research opportunity. We’re looking for educators who: · work directly with children · are based in nurseries, preschools, and similar settings · are not currently in a managerial role The goal is to gather feedback on the ‘Check an
- [Newsflash - Infant Mental Health Awareness Week](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20a88b42&cd=195f6ae4e1b3cd7&m=0) - Next week (09/06) is Infant Mental Health Awareness Week. The theme this year is, 'Who is holding the baby?'. Highlighting that not everyone bonds easily with their baby, and that parents who are overwhelmed by trauma, or struggling with mental or physical health difficulties, need support. Although Infant Mental Health should always be a priority,
- [Newsflash - Department for Education Early Education and Childcare Provider Regional Roadshow – Southwest region – 3 June 2025](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b2123d74a&cd=195f6ae4e1af279&m=0) - The Department for Education’s Early Education and Childcare Provider Roadshow for the Southwest, for group-based setting leaders and managers is being held in Bristol on 3 June at DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre. You can register your attendance. This event is a great opportunity to engage with DfE to share your ideas, successes, concerns and challenges and
- [Nurturing Nutrition: Building Healthy Foundations in the Early Years Vodcast](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/05/nurturing-nutrition-building-healthy-foundations-in-the-early-years-vodcast/) - This vodcast is a recording of the live event held by Foundation Years on 'Nurturing Nutrition: Building Healthy Foundations in the Early Years'. We explore how to create supportive food environments that foster positive eating habits and long-term health for children in their early years. You’ll hear from the Department for Education, and early years
- [Newsflash - Final stage of government’s childcare expansion for working families](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d1223bb&cd=195f6ae4e0a3241&m=0) - All eligible working parents of children who will be at least nine months old on or before 31 August can now apply for 30 hours of government-funded childcare for September 2025 through the government’s childcare expansion. Parents can check their eligibility and apply at childcarechoices.gov.uk. Settings should be talking with parents currently receiving the 15-hour
- [Newsflash - Final stage of government’s childcare expansion for working families](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d1223bb&cd=195f6ae4e0a3241&m=0) - All eligible working parents of children who will be at least nine months old on or before 31 August can now apply for 30 hours of government-funded childcare for September 2025 through the government’s childcare expansion. Parents can check their eligibility and apply at childcarechoices.gov.uk. Settings should be talking with parents currently receiving the 15-hour
- [Early Years Foundation Stage Profile](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/11/early-years-foundation-stage-profile/) - This page provides teachers with support to complete the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile. [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/04/completing-the-eyfs-profile-for-children-remaining-in-eyfs-provision/"]Completing the EYFS Profile for children remaining in EY provision[/button] [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/11/completing-the-eyfs-profile-for-children-with-special-educational-needs-and-disabilities/"]Completing the EYFS Profile for children with SEND[/button] [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/completing-the-eyfs-profile-for-children-who-have-transferred-schools/"]Completing the EYFS Profile
- [Newsflash - Climate action plans for a sustainable future](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b2104eb72&cd=195f6ae4e0a31b9&m=0) - The Department for Education expects all education settings to have a climate action plan by 2025. For free help to develop and progress your climate action plan, register for interactive workshops throughout May. We will guide you to identify key actions, engage colleagues, and access support to integrate sustainability into school life. There are Early Years
- [Introducing the Professional Practice Framework (PPF)](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/05/introducing-the-professional-practice-framework-ppf/) - The Professional Practice Framework, PPF is a motivational tool to boost professional development for anyone working in the early years, and is aligned to the recently revised DfE criteria. It provides an opportunity for students and staff to reflect on their own knowledge and skills against the latest criteria through a RAG rated self-assessment
- [Newsflash - Interviews with early years job applicants and workers – share your views and get a £35 voucher](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1ddf257f&cd=195f6ae4e05da1e&m=0) - The Department for Education (DfE) is expanding the number of funded childcare places available in England. They estimate that an additional 40,000 staff are required to meet the increasing demand for childcare places. To address this, they conducted a pilot in some parts of England which provided a £1,000 financial incentive to eligible staff recruited
- [Newsflash - Answering your questions on The Government’s supervised toothbrushing programme for early years.](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f6e8e08&cd=195f6ae4e030ed2&m=0) - The Government has announced £11 million of funding for a Supervised toothbrushing programme targeting the most deprived areas of England to help prevent tooth decay in children. This fully funded and voluntary scheme for targeted early years settings forms part of The Government’s commitment to give children the best start in life. It also supports good toothbrushing habits
- [Newsflash - Do Something Big campaign – advertising vacancies on Find A Job ahead of summer activity](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de7832f7118&cd=195f6ae4e00b3b9&m=0) - The next wave of the Do Something Big campaign will run from 19 May-14 September 2025, encouraging more people to explore a fulfilling career in early years and childcare. New adverts include 15-second social videos that challenge common barriers to joining the sector, alongside new content specifically designed to encourage more men to consider working in early
- [Safer Sleeping Practices for Early Years Educators](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/09/safer-sleeping-practices-for-early-years-educators/) - This vodcast explores a series of best practice questions with Alex Robinson (Early Years Policy Advisor - Department for Education) and Ellen Lithgow (Public Health Engagement Manager - The Lullaby Trust), discussing safer sleeping practices for Early Years educators to follow to keep babies and children safe in their settings. Find out information about
- [Free Toilet Training Posters and Handouts for Early Years Settings and Parents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/03/free-toilet-training-posters-and-handouts-for-early-years-settings-and-parents/) - When children can confidently use the toilet on their own, their transition to reception is easier. These downloadable posters and handouts aim to help parents with toilet training and help educators prepare children for using the toilet when they get to school. The resources include: A child checklist for using the toilet A ‘toilet story
- [Newsflash - Department for Education to develop free early years safeguarding online training.](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de78315c66f&cd=195f6ae4df7f189&m=0) - We are pleased to announce that we will be developing an online safeguarding training package for early years providers. This training which will cover the safeguarding training annex set to be introduced in September 2025 will be free for all early years educators to access. We expect this training to be available Spring 2026 and
- [Newsflash -  Free access to evidenced early maths programme](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1dd904a2&cd=195f6ae4df3d2d9&m=0) - The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) is offering free access to Maths Champions, a professional development programme that has demonstrated positive impact on children’s mathematical attainment. Delivered by the National Day Nurseries Association, Maths Champions builds the knowledge of nursery practitioners to support children’s early mathematical development. A senior member of staff will receive one-to-one support to drive improvement
- [Newsflash - Calling all Early Years educators: -Survey Now Open](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f7507f8&cd=195f6ae4de3870a&m=0) - DfE’s research team is now running another round of research to better understand Early Years educators’ experiences with qualifications. We are inviting educators to complete a short survey to share their views and help shape future improvements. We would appreciate your support in sharing the survey link with educators in your setting or wider networks:
- [Physical Activity in Early Years - Part 4](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/04/physical-activity-in-early-years-part-4/) - This resource has been created by Happy Days Nurseries as part of the Foundation Years' 'Physical Activity' series. Further Resources Help for early years providers : Physical development Fun exercises to do at home with kids - CBeebies UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines Physical activity for early years: birth to 5 years
- [Physical Activity in Early Years - Part 3](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/04/physical-activity-in-early-years-part-3/) - Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by Josh Candy (CEO, Early Years PE) to discuss ways Early Years educators, settings and childminders can include and encourage physical activity with children in their settings. This vodcast explores the limitations of environments, whether that be the weather, access to space or time. This vodcast is
- [Newsflash - Climate action plans for a sustainable future](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b2152b1fd&cd=195f6ae4de2db19&m=0) - The Department for Education expects all education settings to have a climate action plan by 2025. For free help to develop and progress your climate action plan, register for an interactive workshop on Tuesday 8 April 2025 at 4pm – 5pm. We will guide you to identify key actions, engage colleagues, and access support to integrate
- [Event Slides - 'Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments'](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/03/event-slides-creating-inclusive-early-years-environments/) - Presentation Slides from Our Recent Event Now Available! We’re excited to share the presentation slides from our recent event, 'Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments', which took place in Leeds on 6th March 2025. It was a fantastic day filled with insightful discussions, practical strategies, and inspiring ideas to help create more inclusive early years settings.
- [Newsflash - Announcement: Publication of Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship (EYTDA) Training Provider Guidance](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d0b2652&cd=195f6ae4ddf3581&m=0) - The DfE is pleased to announce the publication of the EYTDA Provider Guidance, developed with a sector-led implementation group to support training providers in delivering high-quality apprenticeship programmes for early years professionals. Recommended for HEIs, training providers and sector stakeholders, the EYTDA Provider Guidance details key requirements for apprenticeship delivery, covering: - Eligibility - Programme
- [Newsflash - Free Toilet Training Posters and Handouts for Early Years Settings and Parents](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20fe8527&cd=195f6ae4dd9cb5d&m=0) - When children can confidently use the toilet on their own, their transition to reception is easier. These downloadable posters and handouts aim to help parents with toilet training and help educators prepare children for using the toilet when they get to school. The resources include: - A child checklist for using the toilet - A
- [Early Years Qualifications, Staff:Child Ratios and Continuing Professional Development](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/03/early-years-qualifications-staffchild-ratios-and-continuing-professional-development/) - In this article, Sue Asquith, Early Childhood Consultant, explores early years childcare qualifications, staff:child ratios set out in the statutory framework for the early years foundation stage (EYFS) and ongoing continuing professional development (CPD). What is a Childcare and Early Education Qualification? Childcare qualifications should align with the Department for Education (DfE)’s early years
- [The Importance of Positive Interactions on Baby Brain Development](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/01/the-importance-of-positive-interactions-on-baby-brain-development/) - This vodcast explores the importance of baby brain development, and how Early Years educators can make a difference through fostering positive interactions and relationships with babies in their settings. Early Years Policy Advisor for the Department for Education, Alex Robinson, is joined by Melanie Farman (Development Manager) and Natasha Harrison (Early Years Development Support Officer)
- [Responding to Babies' Cries - A Guide for Early Years Educators](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/01/responding-to-babies-cries-a-guide-for-early-years-educators/) - This vodcast discusses how to recognise the cause of a babies' distress, and how Early Years Educators can sooth them. Early Years Policy Advisor for the Department for Education, Alex Robinson, is joined by Melanie Farman (Development Manager) and Natasha Harrison (Early Years Development Support Officer) at NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
- [Newsflash - Help BBC Tiny Happy People provide valuable support for Early Years speech and language needs](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1ca53bf5&cd=195f6ae4dd7b789&m=0) - This research will inform the improvement and development of their resources for children and families you work with. Please share this survey link with all Early Years teams. BBC Tiny Happy People are collaborating with Sherbet Research. The aim of this survey is to gather information on whether you are using BBC Tiny Happy People resources
- [Newsflash - Funded supervised toothbrushing programme for Early Years settings](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c7f5004&cd=195f6ae4dcecd92&m=0) - The Government has announced an investment of £11 million to implement supervised toothbrushing programmes for children aged 3 – 5 in early years settings, targeting the most deprived areas of England. Local authorities will identify early years settings in target areas, who may then volunteer to participate in this fully funded programme. There is no
- [Event Ebook - 'Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments'](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/03/event-ebook-creating-inclusive-early-years-environments/) - You can access the event ebook here: Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments Event Ebook 'Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments' event held on Thursday 6th March 2025 This event is designed for early years educators, school leaders, and sector professionals, packed with insights, strategies, and inspiration to help create environments where every young child—and every
- [Recruitment and Retention in Early Years - Part 4](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/02/recruitment-and-retention-in-early-years-part-4/) - This vodcast is part 4 of a series that discusses how Early Years settings can address the growing challenges of attracting and retaining talented staff. Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by James Hempsall (Managing Director at Coram Hempsall's) to explore a series of questions and topics on recruitment strategies to attract and
- [Newsflash - Early Years Stronger Practice Hubs Extended  Until March 2026](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fa37f34&cd=195f6ae4dc5ecd9&m=0) - We’re pleased to announce that the Early Years Stronger Practice Hubs programme has been extended until March 2026. This means Hubs will continue to provide funded support and advice to improve quality in early years settings, by sharing evidence-informed practice through their local networks.
- [Newsflash - The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation - Free Resources](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fcc53bc&cd=195f6ae4dc17468&m=0) - The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation has launched Allergy School, offering free resources to support staff in creating inclusive and safe environments for children with food allergies. Settings may wish to utilise such resources alongside fulfilling their statutory duties to manage allergy risks in early years settings.
- [Recruitment and Retention in Early Years - Part 3](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/02/recruitment-and-retention-in-early-years-part-3/) - This vodcast is part 3 of a series that discusses how Early Years settings can address the growing challenges of attracting and retaining talented staff. Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by Cara Brundle (Director of Business Development at National Day Nurseries Association) to explore a series of questions and topics on recruitment
- [Recruitment and Retention in Early Years - Part 2](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/02/recruitment-and-retention-in-early-years-part-2/) - This vodcast is part 2 of a series that discusses how Early Years settings can address the growing challenges of attracting and retaining talented staff. Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by Claudio Sisera (Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Male Childcare and Teaching Jobs) to explore a series of questions and topics
- [Myth Busting for EYFS Profile (EYFSP) and Reception Year](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/02/myth-busting-for-eyfs-profile-eyfsp-and-reception-year/) - All the following statements are untrue. For information about what is and is not required when administering the EYFSP assessment, please refer to the 2022 EYFSP Handbook. MYTH: Reception teachers should be tracking against the Early Learning Goals (ELGs) in the EYFSP throughout the year. The EYFSP is a summative assessment to be completed at
- [Recruitment and Retention in Early Years - Part 1](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/02/recruitment-and-retention-in-early-years-part-1/) - This vodcast is part 1 of a series that discusses how Early Years settings can address the growing challenges of attracting and retaining talented staff. Seb Thorpe (Head of Begin Bright) is joined by Gill Mason (Training Academy Director and Designated Safeguarding Lead at Kids Planet Day Nurseries) to explore a series of questions and
- [Completing the EYFS Profile for children with special educational needs and disabilities](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/11/completing-the-eyfs-profile-for-children-with-special-educational-needs-and-disabilities/) - Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile assessment for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) What is the EYFS Profile? The EYFS Profile is a statutory assessment of children’s development at the end of the academic year in which children turn 5, usually reception year. The Profile is intended to provide a reliable and
- [Newsflash - Timewise - Flexible working: A guide for nursery managers](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d5a9f5c&cd=195f6ae4dac6d92&m=0) - The Timewise Childcare Pioneers project 2024 explored how proactive flexible working cultures could improve staff wellbeing and retention and attract a more diverse pool of candidates. Timewise created a guide for nursery managers to support with implementing flexible working in an EY setting.
- [Newsflash - 'Do Something BIG' campaign - advertising vacancies on Find A Job ahead of upcoming events](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e104eeb&cd=195f6ae4db56e42&m=0) - The Department for Education’s Do Something BIG recruitment campaign is continuing to highlight the huge difference early years educators make to young children and how rewarding working in the sector can be. Throughout February we are running a series of Do Something Big careers events across the country. The campaign directs potential applicants to use DWP’s Find
- [Newsflash - New Toilet Training Guidance for Early Years Educators](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1cfd4e53&cd=195f6ae4dae5a02&m=0) - Using the toilet is a new skill that children need to learn. Early years educators can play an important role in supporting children and their parents with toilet training. The Department for Education has published new toilet training guidance on the Help for Early Years Providers website. This will help educators understand how to support
- [Newsflash - Foundation Years News](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b203a9fbd&cd=195f6ae4dac32fa&m=0) - Check an Early Years Qualification digital service launching in Spring Early Years (EY) qualification requirements, particularly understanding whether a qualification is approved for working in staff:child ratios, can be tricky to understand. With this in mind, we have developed the Check an Early Years Qualification digital service to help EY managers check the approval status
- [Writing in reception](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/06/blog-writing-in-reception/) - A Reception teacher's perspective - making final judgements against the new writing Early Learning Goal (ELG). When the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) reforms were introduced, they offered those of us working in early years the chance to reflect on our curriculum - every aspect of it! In 2020/21, our large two-form entry, inner city
- [Help for Early Years Providers](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/01/help-for-early-years-providers/) - The Department for Education offers free resources, activities and support articles for people working in early years via Help for Early Years Providers. Find helpful articles and resources to support you in your setting, from curriculum planning to food safety. You can sign up to receive email alerts to be notified when new resources are added to the site.
- [Early Years Child Development Training](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2025/01/early-years-child-development-training/) - This free online training by the Department for Education is written by early years experts and aims to build and strengthen early years educators’ knowledge and understanding of child development and offers practical advice for supporting children in early years settings and reception to thrive. DfE’s Early years child development training is an online programme
- [Newsflash - Exciting New Vodcasts for Early Years Educators!](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b2125fede&cd=195f6ae4da5ddf8&m=0) - We're thrilled to announce the release of two brand new vodcasts on the Foundation Years website! These engaging and informative resources are designed to support early years educators in providing the best care for babies and young children.
- [Newsflash - 'Do Something BIG' campaign - advertise your vacancies on Find A Job](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b20f5973c&cd=195f6ae4d9cd942&m=0) - The Department for Education’s Do Something BIG recruitment campaign is ramping up at the end of December. It continues to highlight the huge difference early years educators make to young children and how rewarding working in the sector can be.
- [Safeguarding Excellence: Protecting Our Youngest Learners](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/12/safeguarding-excellence-protecting-our-youngest-learners/) - This vodcast focuses on critical aspects of safeguarding children in early years settings, recapping official 2024 guidance from DfE and emphasising practical strategies to deal with common challenges, such as managing allergies, applying safeguarding best practices in daily roles and many more. You will hear from a range of experts who will share insights on
- [Sustainability within Early Childhood Education](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/12/sustainability-within-early-childhood-education/) - In 2021 the Government launched the DfE Strategy on Sustainability and Climate Action to align with the Sustainable Development Goal 13 Climate Action. The Strategy was updated in 2023 (Sustainability and climate change strategy: our progress so far, December 2023). A supporting document for early years educators was developed that reflected SDG 13 Climate Action
- [Curriculum Planning in the Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/12/curriculum-planning-in-the-early-years/) - Sue Asquith, Early Childhood Consultant, explores what a curriculum is and the importance of a curriculum by design and not chance. I see a lot of social media posts about developing a curriculum, asking people to share their curriculums and planning. Please read this blog if you are sat in front of a planning
- [Newsflash - Child Accident Prevention Trust safety advice](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1cd46cc3&cd=195f6ae4d8f1dc0&m=0) - The Child Accident Prevention Trust has published advice on toy safety, highlighting the risk of buying toys online through unknown sellers. These toys may not be made to UK safety standards and would not be suitable for children.
- [Newsflash - Updated EYFS Profile handbook, including a change to the Speaking ELG](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b2146c308&cd=195f6ae4d936744&m=0) - The Department for Education has published the updated Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile handbook to support teachers and practitioners to complete EYFS Profile assessments in line with statutory requirements. We are pleased to announce that this update includes a change to allow a child’s established or preferred mode of communication (including non-speaking communication, such as signing)
- [Newsflash - Calling new starters in early education roles](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e56893e&cd=195f6ae4d936741&m=0) - Have you started working in an early education role in the last 6 months or so? Or have you recently applied for a role like this? The Department for Education (DfE) want to learn more about peoples’ views about jobs and careers in early education (i.e. roles working directly with children aged up to four).
- [Newsflash - Free Webinar & Resources: Join BBC Tiny Happy People to find out more](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b214dd00e&cd=195f6ae4d86de16&m=0) - The BBC Tiny Happy People website provides a wealth of FREE resources including fun activity ideas, tips and advice, child development facts, key talking tips for any age and much more. All designed to empower families with knowledge and techniques to support their 0–4-year-olds development in the home learning environment.
- [Children's Dental Health - A Guide for Early Years Educators](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/11/childrens-dental-health-a-guide-for-early-years-educators/) - Prof. Zoe Marshman provides background to why improving children’s oral health is important for Early Years Educators, with practical advice on ways to improve it. This vodcast explores information on tooth decay, methods to prevent tooth decay, information on sugar consumption, toothbrushing and ways that Early Years educators can promote children’s oral health. Vodcast
- [School-Based Nursery Capital Grant Updates](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de78345a0b0&cd=195f6ae4d81e6da&m=0) - The DfE recently hosted webinars on the school-based nurseries capital grant, where they explained the application process and shared key considerations for designing a nursery. You can watch the recordings using the links below;
- [Rethinking Praise: Moving Beyond ‘Good Girl’ and ‘Good Boy’ in Early Years Settings](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/11/rethinking-praise-in-early-years-settings/) - In Early Years settings, the phrases ‘good girl’ or ‘good boy’ are often used to praise children. While these terms seem harmless, they can actually have unintended consequences on a child’s development. Using labels like these may unintentionally shape a child’s self-worth around external validation, making them more focused on pleasing others than developing
- [Newsflash - Early Years Professional Development Programme](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fa1be38&cd=195f6ae4d7a3269&m=0) - The Early Years Professional Development Programme (EYPDP), launched in early 2023, has made significant strides in advancing the skills and confidence of early years practitioners across England. To date, over 10,000 practitioners have registered, benefitting from high-quality, government-funded training as part of the Early Years Education Recovery Programme.
- [Newsflash - ‘Do Something BIG’ campaign – advertise your vacancies on Find A Job](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1cc49e57&cd=195f6ae4d757358&m=0) - The Department for Education’s Do Something BIG recruitment campaign is continuing to highlight the huge difference early years educators make to young children and how rewarding working in the sector can be. On average, we are seeing over 46,000 visits to the campaign website each week, which directs potential applicants to use DWP’s Find a Job vacancy platform to search
- [Early Years Foundation Stage Safeguarding Reforms (2024)](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/10/early-years-foundation-stage-safeguarding-reforms-2024/) - This vodcast explores the upcoming Early Years Foundation Stage safeguarding reforms that have been made after the recent consultation on proposals to strengthen safeguarding requirements for Early Years settings. Olivia Mcneill (Senior Policy Advisor - Department for Education) provides further information and explanations behind each of the safeguarding changes. Find out more about the
- [The latest news, policy and resources for early years professionals in the UK.](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/04/about-us/) - What is Foundation Years? Foundation Years is a unique digital resource for everything early years We deliver regular, relevant, topical information and sector news to support you in your role as an early years professional. Foundation Years is funded by the UK Government’s Department for Education and is delivered by Begin Bright. Begin
- [New vodcast on the 'Help for Early Years Providers' online service](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/12/new-vodcast-on-the-help-for-early-years-providers-online-resource/) - Foundation Years is pleased to share with you a new vodcast on the Department for Education's (DfE) online service 'Help for Early Years Providers'. The service aims to support childminders and staff in Private, Voluntary and Independent (PVI) settings to understand and implement the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) reforms. In this vodcast, Gill
- [Foundation Years vodcast on outdoor learning](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/05/vodcast-on-outdoor-learning/) - Foundation Years is pleased to share with you a new vodcast exploring the benefits of outdoor learning in the early years. Gill Holden, Principal Officer of the Early Childhood Unit at the National Children's Bureau (NCB) speaks to Jo Gordon and Jacqui McDermid, Early Years Consultants, Communication and Language Development Leads at the Lambeth Early
- [Foundation Years vodcast on Infant Mental Health Awareness Week](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/06/foundation-years-vodcast-on-infant-mental-health-awareness-week/) - Foundation Years is pleased to share with you a new vodcast reflecting on Infant Mental Health Awareness Week, which took place between 13 and 19 June, 2022. Gill Holden, Principal Officer of the Early Childhood Unit at the National Children's Bureau (NCB), speaks to Sally Hogg, who has worked on and championed the emotional wellbeing
- [Foundation Years vodcast on mental health and wellbeing](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/07/foundation-years-vodcast-on-staff-mental-health-and-wellbeing/) - Foundation Years is pleased to share with you a new vodcast taking a look at the mental health and wellbeing of the early years professionals working every day with babies and young children. Gill Holden, Principal Officer of the Early Childhood Unit at the National Children’s Bureau (NCB), speaks to Sonia Mainstone-Cotton, an independent early year’s
- [New vodcast for senior leaders on assessment and good practice under the new EYFS](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/09/new-vodcast-for-senior-leaders-on-assessement-and-good-practice-under-the-new-eyfs/) - Foundation Years is pleased to share with you our latest vodcast on assessment and good practice under the new EYFS, from the perspective of a senior leader. Gill Holden, Programme Lead of the Early Childhood Unit at the National Children’s Bureau (NCB), speaks to Candi Roberts, Headteacher at Claremont Primary School in Tunbridge Wells. https://youtu.be/rJtwNYidsVg
- [Foundation Years vodcast: Top tips to improve the Home Learning Environment](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/11/foundation-years-vodcast-top-tips-to-improve-the-home-learning-environment/) - Foundation Years is pleased to share a new vodcast offering some top tips for improving the Home Learning Environment for the early years. In a changed format to previous Foundation Years vodcasts, Gill Holden, Early Childhood Programme Lead at the National Children’s Bureau (NCB), introduces a collection of insights and experiences from a host of
- [EYFS Changes vodcast: 4 September](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/08/eyfs-changes-vodcast-4-september/) - In this new vodcast, Jade Gilks (Head of the Early Years Qualifications Unit at the Department for Education) sets out the three changes being made to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework from 4 September 2023. She is joined by Wendy Ratcliff (HMI, Principal Officer for Early Years Education at Ofsted), and both
- [Vodcast: Upcoming changes to the EYFS](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/12/vodcast-upcoming-changes-to-the-eyfs/) - In this latest vodcast, Charlotte Stockton (Early Years Foundation Stage Implementation Team Leader at the Department for Education) sets out the upcoming changes to the EYFS, coming into effect in January 2024, subject to parliamentary procedure. She outlines what these changes will mean in practice in settings and answers some frequently asked questions on topics
- [Self-Regulation: What is Self-Regulation and why is it so important?](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/10/self-regulation-what-is-self-regulation-and-why-is-it-so-important/) - Sue Asquith, Early Childhood Consultant and author of Self-Regulation Skills in Young Children defines self-regulation and offers some practical tips for practitioners working with young children. What is self-regulation? Self-regulation is complex, but to put it simply, I describe it as: the ability to understand and manage your own energy, emotions, behaviours and attention
- [Newsflash - World Mental Health Day](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1c842ec5&cd=195f6ae4d6ec852&m=0) - Today is World Mental Health Day and this year’s theme is workplace mental health. The early years workforce makes a huge contribution to young children’s lives, and a role in early years can be enjoyable and rewarding. However, it can also be a challenging and demanding career. As in any workplace, this can take a toll
- [Newsflash - New Flexibilities for Childminders](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/10/new-flexibilities-for-childminders/) - From 1 November, we are implementing new flexibilities for childminders to help them join and stay in the profession. This is supporting the government’s commitment to roll out expanded childcare entitlements and give children the best start in life. The new flexibilities will: Create a new category of childminder (childminder without domestic premises) who
- [Newsflash - Do you know someone who deserves an Honour?](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d209f2b&cd=195f6ae4d6c7681&m=0) - Do you know someone who deserves an Honour? As the Kings Birthday 2025 honours round approaches, we are keen to raise the profile of the Early Years Education, Families and Childcare sector and nominate colleagues who have made a difference. The honours system recognises people who have: · Made achievements in public life · Committed
- [Newsflash - Removal of SHGs for Schools](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de78350c977&cd=195f6ae4d59d50a&m=0) - Ofsted news. Dear Foundation Years Subscribers, Firstly, we wanted to acknowledge Sunday 1st September marked an exciting landmark as hundreds of thousands of eligible working parents of children from 9-months-old will begin to access 15 hours of government-funded early education per week, and new wraparound childcare places are now available for primary aged children before
- [Newsflash - Boost Flu Vaccination Awareness](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1e43aa0d&cd=195f6ae4d5c9bf8&m=0) - Help raise awareness about flu vaccination. Staff working in the early years sector can help raise awareness of the flu vaccination programme for preschool children amongst parents. Immunising preschool children against flu provides information about the programme and how children can get vaccinated. You may want to display resources like this poster or give copies
- [Newsflash – Early Years SEND](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1f9693d7&cd=195f6ae4d5f3fc0&m=0) - Department for Education news. The Early years child development training is an online programme that is free to access. It has been designed by early years professionals to help early years educators build and strengthen their knowledge and understanding of child development. Module 8: Supporting individual differences and needs now available and covers: an introduction
- [Newsflash - Careers Hubs](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1d66d783&cd=195f6ae4d632992&m=0) - Department for Education news. As you may be aware, schools in England are required to ensure that they offer at least six encounters with approved providers of apprenticeships and technical education for all their students. Together with The Careers & Enterprise Company and their Careers Hub network, early years and childcare providers can make the
- [Newsflash – Your time to shine](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=11a2b0b1fd742f4&cd=195f6ae4d6a76d8&m=0) - Your time to Shine: DfE comms opportunities. The DfE’s ‘Do something BIG’ campaign is seeking inspiring and standout real-life stories from early years professionals working in nurseries, pre-schools, before and after school clubs, or as childminders. Our goal is to champion the early years sector as part of our campaign and through DfE newsletters and
- [Newsflash - Water Beads](https://edua-zcmp.campaign-view.eu/ua/SharedView?od=3z29baf5795d3aacfcaee9abc4716978ae&cno=129de78348be0c&cd=195f6ae4d632afa&m=0) - OPSS issues Safety Alert to warn of the risks of water beads. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a Safety Alert to warn of the risks that water beads pose to children and vulnerable adults. The Safety Alert advises that water beads should be kept away from children under five, and
- [Early years qualifications ‘knowledge only' pathway](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/03/ncfe-cache-early-years-educator-eye-and-early-years-practitioner-eyp-qualifications-knowledge-only-pathway/) - When employing a member of staff, providers will need to check NCFE CACHE and Pearson qualification certificates to establish whether the learner has achieved a ‘knowledge only pathway’ early years educator (EYE) or early years practitioner (EYP) qualification. For NCFE CACHE, where the achievement of the qualification is ‘knowledge only pathway’, the holder cannot
- [Completing the EYFS Profile for children remaining in EYFS provision](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/04/completing-the-eyfs-profile-for-children-remaining-in-eyfs-provision/) - The expectation is that children move with their peers so they will be assessed against the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile once, at the end of the academic year in which they turn 5. In exceptional circumstances, a child might remain in EYFS provision beyond this. In these exceptional cases, assessment should continue throughout
- [Example format for the progress check at age two](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/example-format-for-the-progress-check-at-age-two/) - The progress check at age two involves practitioners reviewing a child’s progress and providing parents and/or carers with a short written summary of their child’s development in the prime areas: communication and language personal, social and emotional development physical development It is up to you what further information, beyond the prime areas, you would like
- [Completing the EYFS Profile for children who have transferred schools](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/completing-the-eyfs-profile-for-children-who-have-transferred-schools/) - The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile should be completed for all eligible children registered at a school. When a child transfers to or from a school during the academic year, who should complete the EYFS Profile depends on the time of year the child transferred and where they have transferred to/from. For more information
- [EYFS assessment](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/eyfs-assessment/) - This resource supports practitioners completing statutory EYFS assessments. [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/what-does-assessment-mean-in-the-eyfs/"]What does assessment mean in the EYFS?[/button] [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/progress-check-at-age-two/"]Progress check at age two[/button] [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/11/early-years-foundation-stage-profile/"]Early Years Foundation Stage Profile[/button]
- [What does assessment mean in the EYFS?](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/what-does-assessment-mean-in-the-eyfs/) - Assessment plays an important part in helping parents, carers and practitioners to recognise children’s progress, understand their needs, and to plan activities and support. The statutory assessment requirements in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework are: ongoing assessment; the progress check at age two; the reception baseline assessment (RBA); and the EYFS Profile. It
- [Progress check at age two](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/progress-check-at-age-two/) - This page provides practitioners with support to complete the progress check at age two. [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://help-for-early-years-providers.education.gov.uk/get-help-to-improve-your-practice/integrated-reviews"]Integrated reviews[/button] [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/example-format-for-the-progress-check-at-age-two"]Example format for the progress check at age two[/button]
- [Blog: Independent Evaluation finds significant positive results of the 2021 EYFS Reforms](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/02/blog-independent-evaluation-finds-significant-positive-results-of-the-2021-eyfs-reforms/) - On 27 October 2023, DfE published an evaluation report of the 2021 Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Reforms. The 2021 reforms aimed to improve early years (EY) outcomes for all children, particularly disadvantaged children, reduce assessment paperwork and support good oral health. The 2021 reforms overhauled the Educational Programmes as well as the Early Learning
- [Family Information Services](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2019/08/parents-family-information-services/) - Your local Family Information Service provides a range of information on all services available to parents, including parents of disabled children. Family Information Services are run by local authorities, who set them up in different ways but they are all obliged to provide information, advice and assistance about childcare and other activities of benefit to
- [Exemptions from the Early Years Foundation Stage learning and development requirements](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/01/exemptions-from-the-early-years-foundation-stage-learning-and-development-requirements/) - The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the statutory framework that sets the standards and requirements that all early years providers in England must follow to ensure every child has the best start in life and is prepared for school. The framework is flexible enough to accommodate most circumstances. However, there are circumstances where providers
- [Blog: EYFS changes](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2024/01/blog-eyfs-changes/) - Overview The Department for Education has published the updated Early Years Foundation Stage frameworks and as of 4th January 2024 the changes are now in effect. This is a result of work by the DfE aiming to allow early years settings to better utilise their workforce, helping to increase capacity ahead of the rollout of
- [Blog: Foundation Years Live on-line event – Wednesday 29th November 2023 Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/12/blog-foundation-years-live-on-line-event-wednesday-29th-november-2023-frequently-asked-questions/) - EYFS Changes Q: When will the new statutory framework be released and when will it need to be implemented? A: Subject to parliamentary procedure, we are aiming to bring the majority of these changes into force in January 2024. Two further changes, that will introduce an experience-based route allowing skilled and knowledgeable staff a way
- [Blog: How the National Professional Qualification in Early Years Leadership is strengthening and expanding existing leadership skills](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/12/blog-how-the-national-professional-qualification-in-early-years-leadership-is-strengthening-and-expanding-existing-leadership-skills/) - Jill Whitehouse is a former Deputy Head Teacher of a primary school in the Northeast of England with over 30 years’ experience in Primary and Early Years education. Since October 2022, Jill has been a facilitator of the NPQ in Early Years Leadership (NPQEYL). Introduction I have been educating young people for over 30
- [SEND](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/10/send-new-version/) - SEN and Disability in the Early Years Toolkit Children and the Council for Disabled Children (CDC) produced a toolkit for SEN and disability in the early years. Each section of the toolkit provides a briefing on a particular aspect of the SEN and disability reforms as they apply to early years providers. Each section is based on
- [Speech, Language and Communication](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/10/speech-language-and-communication-new-version/) - Public Health England (PHE) and the Department for Education’s (DfE) Best Start in Speech, Language and Communication Programme aims to improve the rate of early identification of need in the early years and increase the number of children who are ready for school by the age of 5. PHE and DfE published a suite
- [Quality](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2019/08/quality/) - As a professional, you know that evidence shows high quality provision during the foundation years has a lasting impact on children’s outcomes, future learning and life chances. Quality provision in early education and childcare is secured through a workforce which is confident in: Working together Engaging with mums, dads and families Understanding the importance
- [Childcare Choices - boost your business whilst helping families](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/07/childcare-choices-boost-your-business-whilst-helping-families/) - Over a million families in the UK are entitled to support with the costs of childcare from the government, but many are missing out because childcare providers in their area haven’t signed up to accept the various offers. This also means that many childcare providers are missing out on
- [Supporting young children with SEND: the importance of early intervention and partnership working](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2023/05/supporting-young-children-with-send-the-importance-of-early-intervention-and-partnership-working/) - Christina Welsh & Adi Soni, NCB EYSEND Partnership The Council for Disabled Children is the lead partner of the EYSEND Partnership and is part of the National Children’s Bureau. At our recent regional event for the Early Years SEND Partnership (EYSEND), representatives from the Office for National Statistics presented their report on the educational experiences
- [Food safety advice on choking hazards in settings](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/09/food-safety-advice-on-choking-hazards-in-settings/) - Tragically, a child dies in the UK every month from choking and hundreds more require hospital treatment. It can happen quickly and it can happen to anyone. The Food Standards Agency have issued some useful resources in the form of two posters which can be displayed in your setting where food is prepared and served
- [First Stronger Practice Hubs announced](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/11/first-stronger-practice-hubs-announced/) - The Department for Education (DfE) has announced the first 13 settings in England that will be early years Stronger Practice Hubs. Early years stronger practice hubs will provide advice, share good practice, and offer evidence-based professional development for early years practitioners. The hubs are part of the early years education recovery support package which also includes
- [Blog: The impact of Covid-19 on provision for young children with SEND/neurodiverse needs](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/11/blog-the-impact-of-covid-19-on-provision-for-young-children-with-send-neurodiverse-needs/) - Julia Lumb is a SEND Specialist Co-ordinator for Early Years and Portage and Specialist Inclusion Teams Manager at Calderdale Council Looking back over the last two years of Early Years Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) practice, it would be easy to think that when the pandemic hit, the support for our neurodiverse children and
- [Blog: The crucial role of the early years workforce in supporting young children’s communication and language skills](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/09/blog-the-crucial-role-of-the-early-years-workforce-in-supporting-young-childrens-communication-and-language-skills/) - The early years workforce has a vital role in supporting young children’s communication and language skills. Without these skills, children will struggle to learn, make friends, have good mental health, and ultimately, get a job. Indeed, research indicates that children with poor understanding of vocabulary at age 5 are twice as likely to experience periods
- [Blog: Music in the early years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/06/blog-music-in-the-early-years/) - “What is your favourite song?” This innocuous question is possibly asked somewhere in this country every day. The associated musical interactions often take place in two different ways. Firstly, there are planned singing sessions where children choose songs from a selection, perhaps using pictures or props to help them or when adults provide materials to
- [Blog: All of our children, all of our responsibility](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2022/02/blog-all-of-our-children-all-of-our-responsibility/) - Philippa Stobbs is Assistant Director at the Council for Disabled Children, which leads the EYSEND Partnership. Young children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), their families and those working with them, have been among those most affected by the pandemic*. For the EYSEND Partnership, working with settings, parents, local authorities and services during the
- [The Revised Early Years Foundation Stage Framework: Implementing the Reforms at Caldicotes Primary Academy](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/10/the-revised-early-years-foundation-stage-framework-implementing-the-reforms-at-caldicotes-primary-academy/) - Kate Pounder is the Early Years Lead at Caldicotes Primary Academy in Thorntree, Middlesbrough, an early adopter school. The implementation of the new reforms has brought about much consideration across the Early Years sector. With debate, discussion and some myths surrounding curriculum maps, assessment checklists and more, the EYFS reforms have led practitioners to question
- [The Revised Early Years Foundation Stage Framework: Implementing the Reforms at Ark Priory Academy](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/10/the-revised-early-years-foundation-stage-framework-implementing-the-reforms-at-ark-priory-academy/) - Sarah Charlton is Head of Early Years at Ark Priory Academy in West London, an early adopter school. As early adopters of the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, we have completed our year of implementing the revisions including using the revised Development Matters document, reviewing our curriculum in line with the educational programmes
- [Amendments to Development Matters](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/08/amendments-to-development-matters/) - A number of small amendments were made to the revised Development Matters on 29 July. Please note that these are minor changes and if you have already printed the version that was uploaded on 23 July, there is no need to re-print the document. The changes made on 29 July include: A typo correction on page 19 Formatting
- [An update to Development Matters](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2021/07/an-update-to-development-matters/) - The Department for Education (DfE) have published a revised version of Development Matters, government’s non-statutory curriculum guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), to reflect feedback received from the Early Adopter schools that have adopted the EYFS reforms over the 2020/21 academic year. Please note that changes to content are minor and you will not
- [Speech, Language and Communication](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2020/12/speech-language-and-communication/) - Public Health England have published guidance to help improve speech, language and communication (SLC) in the early years. Guidance to support local commissioners and service leads This guidance document includes a: summary of why early language and communication matters and the scale of the problem in England, a ‘model example’ for an integrated early years
- [Early Years announcements in Spending Round](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2019/09/early-years-announcements-in-spending-round/) - In yesterday’s Spending Round, Chancellor Sajid Javid announced a range of measure that will see funding rise in the early years. Highlights from the Spending Round: The Government will continue to support families with their childcare costs. The Chancellor announced an extra £66 million in 2020-21, to increase hourly rates paid to childcare providers through the
- [People connected with Ofsted-registered childcare](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2018/11/people-connected-with-ofsted-registered-childcare/) - Ofsted have published updated guidance for childminder assistants, people living or working with a childminder, committee members and other people associated with Ofsted-registered childcare. Access the information here.
- [Business Smart for Childminders - PACEY](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2017/08/business-smart-for-childminders-pacey/) - Business Smart is a free online resource from the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY) to support the sustainability of new and established childminding settings in England. It has been developed by childminders for childminders and in association with Lloyds Bank. Funding for the toolkit has been provided by a grant from
- [30 Hours Childcare: Operational Guidance](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2017/07/30-hours-childcare-operational-guidance/) - The DfE has published an updated Operational Guidance on how local authorities (LAs) and early years settings should provide the early years entitlement. The guide sets out: what LAs should do to fulfil their statutory responsibilities what early years settings should do to fulfil their agreement with the LA how LAs and early years settings can
- [Ofsted page for Childminder registration](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/2017/03/ofsted-page-for-childminder-registration/) - Ofsted has launched a new Facebook page aimed at people who want to register as childminders. Like or follow the page for updates on registering with Ofsted and ask them about the process.

## Pages

- [Terms and conditions](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/disclaimer/) - Please read the following terms and conditions carefully as they govern the use of this website Your use of this site Your use of this site constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions, which take effect on the first day of use of the site. You agree to use this site only for lawful purposes,
- [Family relationships](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/family-relationships/) - A good relationship between parents makes a big difference to a child, whether or not you are still living together. There are a wide range of experts, such as Relate, that provide relationship support to families who need it. In some areas there are relationship support sessions for new mums and dads to help
- [Contact Us](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/contact-us/) - The Foundation Years website is funded by the Department for Education and brought to you by Begin Bright. Unfortunately we are unable to provide advice or guidance to parents and practitioners. You can find information on support services below and links to other organisations here. Email: foundationyears@beginbright.com Family Information Services Family Information Services provide free, impartial
- [Newsletters](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/signupform/newsletters/)
- [Calendar](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/calendar/) - Upcoming events
- [EYFS Statutory Framework](https://dev-foundation-years.pantheonsite.io/2019/08/eyfspolicy/) - The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old. All schools and Ofsted-registered early years providers must follow the EYFS, including childminders, preschools, nurseries and school reception classes. The EYFS framework supports an integrated approach to early learning and care. It gives all
- [EYFS Statutory Framework](https://dev-foundation-years.pantheonsite.io/2019/08/eyfspolicy/) - The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old. All schools and Ofsted-registered early years providers must follow the EYFS, including childminders, preschools, nurseries and school reception classes. The EYFS framework supports an integrated approach to early learning and care. It gives all
- [Frequently Asked Questions on the EYFSP](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/frequently-asked-questions-on-the-eyfsp/) - Do I have to complete the EYFSP for a child with SEND? Yes. The EYFSP must be completed for all children, including those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), unless an exemption has previously been obtained. Reasonable adjustments to the assessment process for children with SEND must be made, as appropriate, to ensure the
- [Accessibility](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/accessibility/) - Standards compliance Current Government legislation has made it law for all websites to offer a level of accessibility to people with disabilities, as part of the Equalities Act. The Foundation Years website is designed with accessibility in mind and follows the accessibility guidelines published by W3C, viewable by clicking this link: www.w3.org/TR/WCAG10/. As a minimum
- [CMAs Areas of Operation](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/cmas-areas-of-operation/)
- [Event Locations](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/event-locations/) - CONTENTS
- [Event Categories](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/event-categories/) - CONTENTS
- [My Bookings](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/my-bookings/) - CONTENTS
- [What to expect, when?](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/what-to-expect-when/) - The purpose of this booklet is to help you as a parent/carer find out more about how your child is learning and developing during their first five years, in relation to the EYFS. Children develop more rapidly during the first five years of their lives than at any other time. This booklet has been written to help
- [Early Learning and Childcare Partnership Hubs](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/hubs/) - Action for Children’s ‘Early Learning and Childcare Partnership Hubs’ are bringing together provision in a local area to support the rollout of the 30 hours through a partnership approach offering flexible quality early education. The project is funded until March 2018 by the DfE and has the following overarching aims: To establish sustainable partnerships
- [EY SENCO Case Studies](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/ey-senco-case-studies/) - Action for Children has compiled a set of five case studies which represent some of the work going on across the country to support children with SEND. These case studies give examples of good practice in relation to the role of the setting SENCO. [styled_box title="SEND Case Studies" class="sb_blue"] [button target="_blank" style="background:#012454;color:#ffffff;border:2px solid #cccccc;" class="" link="https://dev-foundation-years.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Develping-a-confident-workforce.pdf"]
- [Early language](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning/early-language/) - It is widely agreed that early language development is critical for future learning and school readiness. There is a wealth of evidence and research that you can draw on and study to support your understanding of this prime area of learning and development. Find out more from research: The role of language in children’s early educational outcomes –
- [Healthy development & integrated working](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/healthy-development/) - Good health is one of the most important determinants of a child’s life chances. All professionals working in the foundation years need to be involved in promoting and encouraging children’s healthy development. The Healthy Child Programme The Healthy Child Programme is the NHS framework for provision in the foundation years. It consists of a mixed approach
- [Partnership working – integration](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/partnership-working-integration/) - As professionals working in the foundation years, we all do our bit by taking on the responsibility of partnership working with our colleagues in health, social care and early years services to support better outcomes for children and families. For partnership working to be successful, professionals must be active in working alongside, sharing expertise and
- [Working with parents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/working-with-parents/) - Parents matter Mums and dads are the first and most important influence on their child’s development and future outcomes. What interactions take place in the home environment has more influence on a child's future achievement than innate ability, material circumstances or the quality of early years or school provision. The role that mums and dads play
- [Pedagogy & early learning](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning/) - We all know that findings from early childhood studies and neuroscience have shown that children’s early experiences are important in affecting health, behaviour and developmental outcomes. In their first three years, children develop physically, cognitively and emotionally at a faster rate than at any other time in their lives. All professionals need to respond to
- [Qualifications](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/workforce/qualifications/) - In July 2011, the Government commissioned Professor Cathy Nutbrown to investigate the qualifications of the early education and childcare workforce as part of an independent review. The final review, Foundations for Quality, was published in June 2012. All those involved in delivering the Early Years Foundation Stage need to be clear that, regardless of their role, they
- [Support if your child is premature or has a disability](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/support-if-your-child-is-premature-or-has-a-disability/) - Should your child be born premature or with any kind of medical condition or problem it can be extremely distressing. However, you are not alone and there is a wealth of specialist services to help you get practical and emotional support. Being told that your baby has to be taken to a neonatal unit
- [Additional support](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/additional-support/) - Health visitors and children's centres can support you in your parenting as you develop a bond with your new baby. Children’s centres offer a range of services for families, including parenting classes, toddler groups and more specialist services that encompass early education and childcare, social services, health services, training and employment services, and information
- [Parenting support](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/parenting-support/) - Sometimes mums and dads need extra help to prepare for parenthood and extra support is available. If parenting is a complete mystery and you are afraid of doing the wrong thing, don't be embarrassed. There are professionals who can help you through this period of change in your life, and lots of informal networks
- [Flexible leave and working](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/flexible-leave-and-working/) - If you are an expectant mother or father and are working, you have maternity or paternity rights. As soon as you inform your employer that you are pregnant they have a duty to protect your health and safety, and you may have the right to paid time off for antenatal care including attending antenatal
- [Learning and development progress](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/learning-and-development-progress/) - By the end of their foundation years, children should be ready for school: healthy, sociable, curious, happy, active and able to make the most of the opportunities available to them. At the end of your child’s reception year in school, you will get an Early Years Foundation Stage report about your child’s development and
- [Choosing your school](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/choosing-your-school/) - There will be a choice of primary schools in your local area, but you may not always get a place at the first school of your choice, so it is a good idea to research the area well so that you have second and third choices you are happy with. The links below will
- [Choosing the right childcare](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-education/choosing-the-right-childcare/) - Choosing the type of childcare that will suit your family is an important decision and will be based on what is available to you, your working pattern, your child’s needs and the cost. You can choose childcare that is registered or unregistered but only childcare that is registered can qualify for help with costs.
- [Your toddler’s health](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/encouraging-your-toddlers-independence/your-toddlers-health/) - By the time your little one reaches two years old, they will be due for their third health and development review which can be organised in several ways, including through your health visitor or GP. Healthy eating is a fundamental factor in your toddler's health and extensive information about giving them a nutritious diet,
- [Health and immunisations](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/health-and-immunisations/) - As fragile as they may be, it is perfectly normal for babies to get ill from time to time and this is usually a common ailment that can be treated simply with the appropriate care or medication. As a result, don't panic but do a little research into the more common conditions using the
- [Your baby’s health care](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/your-babys-health-care/) - You will be given a Personal Child Health Record (PCHR), often known as the 'Red Book', when your baby is born. This lists the types of services available, when immunisations and development and health checks are due, and is for recording information on your child's health and development, all in one place. You can
- [Support from your midwife and health visitor](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/support-from-your-midwife-and-health-visitor/) - If you give birth in a hospital, you will be cared for by hospital midwives who will provide care during the birth, and afterwards in a postnatal ward. The hospital may book you an appointment to return for a check-up around six weeks after the birth, or they may advise you instead to go
- [Top Ten Picture Books](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-picture-books/) - Top Ten Picture Books There are so many great picture books available and many of them can be used as starting points for elements of mathematics. This could be number, size, shape, pattern, one aspect of measures or a combination of these. These books can be visited again and again, explored on many levels
- [Top Ten Websites and Online Resources](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-websites-and-online-resources/) - Top Ten Websites and Online Resources NRICH enriching mathematics offers a set of EYFS resources here: https://nrich.maths.org/early-years NCETM has two modules for early years – about counting and number. You do have to register, but it is free. The archives on the site also house past issues of Early Years Magazine with
- [Toothbrushing Resources](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/toothbrushing-resources/) - 4Children conducted a Public Health England funded project looking into the feasibility of running a supervised toothbrushing programme for 2, 3 and 4 year olds in private and voluntary early years settings as well as with childminders. The programme was rolled out in 42 of 4Children’s own nurseries, 10 nurseries in the Bright Horizons chain,
- [Archived 30 hours childcare resources](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/30-hours-childcare-resources/archived-30-hours-childcare-resources/) - Childcare Works 30hours LED Events Childcare Works has created a special programme of LED events for providers focusing on 30-hours. The events will be delivered in partnership with the Foundation Years Team at Action for Children. The audience for these events is all types of early years and childcare providers including chains, children’s centres,
- [Developing a Business Plan](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/business-sustainability/developing-a-business-plan/) - This page can be accessed in pdf format here. A business plan is integral to every successful business. It doesn’t need to be very long or time consuming to produce, but once you have written one, it’s important to make sure that you use it to manage your business. If you just put it
- [Marketing](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/business-sustainability/marketing/) - This page can be accessed in pdf format here. Marketing is critical to all types of business. Early years and childcare providers are a unique type of business organisation as you are marketing yourselves to parents and carers to offer to look after and educate their children. This means that you need to think
- [Managing Monthly Finances](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/business-sustainability/managing-monthly-finances/) - This page can be accessed in pdf format here. It’s very important to sit down every month and assess and reflect on how the business is performing compared to your original budget and cash flow forecasts. You need to track how your actual income and expenditure is varying from your projected income and expenditure
- [Top Ten Ideas for Babies and Toddlers](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-ideas-for-babies-and-toddlers/) - Top Ten Ideas for Babies and Toddlers With babies and young toddlers, the emphasis is on the introduction and modelling of the use of maths vocabulary as part of everyday talk, but not an expectation that babies and very young children will repeat words like ‘square’ and ‘triangle’, ‘yellow and ‘green’ or repeat ‘one,
- [Top Ten Games](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-games/) - Top Ten Games Children need lots of opportunities to play games, indoors and outdoors. There are lots of traditional outdoor games such as ‘duck, duck, goose’ and children need time to play catching games, circle games, singing and dancing games, skipping games, target games and parachute games. Hopscotch and chalked games Draw
- [Top Ten General Resources](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-general-resources/) - Top Ten General Resources One glance at any educational resources catalogue will list many resources with the specific purpose of supporting children’s mathematical development. But, there are many more resources which offer many much broader mathematical opportunities, including the chance to identify and solve problems. The following resources, alongside the authentic resources, books,
- [Top Ten Collections](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-collections/) - Top Ten Collections The best collections include items that children are really interested in, so observations of children’s current enthusiasms will offer lots of clues. Children could be interested in the same things as their parents or grandparents, like stamps, cards or coins, or items that reflect popular culture like the latest movie
- [Top Ten Authentic Resources](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-authentic-resources/) - Top Ten Authentic Resources All children need access to authentic, real life resources that they can use to explore their growing mathematical understanding. Younger children may need support in using these objects, whilst older children may use these independently in their learning. Measuring tapes Children can use tape measures to support their
- [Ten Top Number Rhymes](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/ten-top-number-rhymes/) - Ten Top Number Rhymes There are lots of number rhymes, and it is important to include both rhymes that start at five or ten and end with zero and those that start at one and end with five or ten (there aren’t many, so you will have to be inventive). Collections of real
- [Top Ten Number and Counting Books](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-number-and-counting-books/) - Top Ten Number and Counting Books Ellwand, D (2009) Ten in the Bed: a counting book, Handprint Books This simple board book includes photos of real teddies as they fall out of bed, one at a time and can be enjoyed by the youngest child. Fromental, J (2007) 365 Penguins, Harry N
- [Top Ten Professional Resources and Books](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/top-ten-professional-resources-and-books/) - Top Ten Professional Resources and Books Gifford, S (2005) Teaching Mathematics 3-5: developing learning in the foundation stage, Open University Press PACEY (2015) Mathematics in the Early Years – a handy guide to supporting the development of children’s mathematical skills, PACEY Skinner, C and Stevens, J (2013) The Foundations of Mathematics:
- [Preparing your child for school](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/preparing-your-child-for-school/) - The first day at school is always a big step but you can prepare your child by talking to them about it, explaining and showing them where the school is, what they will be doing and for how long. Listen to their concerns, tell them about some of the things they will enjoy and
- [Planning for birth](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/planning-for-birth/) - Every birth is different but planning ahead will help you feel more in control and ensure that you understand all the options available throughout your pregnancy. Following a birth plan will help you understand what is happening to you and your baby at every stage throughout pregnancy and know that everything is progressing as
- [About](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/about/) - Welcome to the Foundation Years website - the best place to find information and support if you work in the early years and childcare delivering services for children and families. The broad range of information accessible on this site is developed by government, professionals and the voluntary and community sector and is continually updated with the
- [Outcomes](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning/outcomes/) - Early Years Foundation Stage Profile Data 2013-14 The new EYFS profile was introduced in September 2012 and the first assessments took place in the summer of 2013. The profile’s ‘emerging’, ‘expected’ and ‘exceeding’ scale is very different to the previous profile which used a 117 point scale. The number of early learning goals has also been
- [Help paying for childcare](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-education/help-paying-for-childcare/)
- [Early education](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-education/)
- [Encouraging your toddler’s independence](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/encouraging-your-toddlers-independence/)
- [Supporting your baby to learn through play](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/supporting-your-baby-to-learn-through-play/) - During these early years, playing with your baby is crucial to their development. Having fun and playing are actually how young children learn to think, enabling them to develop physical, social, emotional and intellectual skills through doing things and talking. Parents can support their baby’s development by encouraging activities that give their child a
- [Your baby’s development](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/your-babys-development/) - Helping your baby to develop is one of the most important jobs you will ever have, and while no two babies ever develop in quite the same way, there is lots of information to help you understand things like why your baby may react in a certain way, or when she might be ready
- [Financial help](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/financial-help/) - Everyone knows that the costs of raising children and balancing work and childcare arrangements can be a worry but financial support may be available. Child benefit provides a contribution towards the costs of bringing up a child, and parents might also be able to claim Child Tax Credits, which offer additional financial help to
- [Registering the birth](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/registering-the-birth/) - You will need to register your child's birth by the time they are six weeks old, in the district they were born. This can often be done at the hospital before you go home, in your local register office or sometimes your local children's centre. If you are unable to get to the area
- [Finding antenatal groups](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/finding-antenatal-groups/) - Antenatal classes are a great way to find out plenty of information that will help you prepare for labour, birth and looking after and feeding your baby. As well as having professionals on hand to show you how to stay healthy, they can be an informal and fun environment to meet people going through
- [Support from your midwife and GP](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/support-from-your-midwife-and-gp/) - For Mums: When you first learn that you're pregnant, get in touch with a midwife or GP as soon as possible. This first appointment is a chance to make sure your maternity healthcare takes into account any special medical needs or vulnerable circumstances and will help you to make informed choices. At this first
- [Achieving 2 year olds](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/achieving-2-year-olds/) - Achieving 2 Year Olds (A2YO) is the Government’s delivery team supporting the roll out of 2 year old places. Watch the A2YO series of films showcasing the latest developments. Communicating the 2 year old offer to parents The Communicating with Parents toolkit is intended to help local authorities and the early years workforce communicate directly with all parents eligible
- [EYFS 2014](https://dev-foundation-years.pantheonsite.io/eyfs-statutory-framework/) - ****!!!! DO NOT DELETE !!!!**** PAGE LINKS TO EYFS FRAMEWORK KNOWLEDGE HUB
- [The Children’s Partnership](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/the-childrens-partnership/) - 4Children and the National Children’s Bureau have formed a partnership – The Children’s Partnership – which has been announced as the Department for Education’s VCSE sector strategic partner for 2013-15. The Partnership works with a consortium of organisations including Barnardo’s, the Family and Childcare Trust, NCVYS and NSPCC. Bringing together leading practice into online resources, knowledge exchange and cross-sector working,
- [Families & Parents](https://dev-foundation-years.pantheonsite.io/parents/) - Link to new parents page
- [Information sharing](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/information-sharing-2/) - In 2011, the Government commissioned Jean Gross to lead a task and finish group of early years and health professionals to explore on-going barriers to information sharing in the early years and to identify examples of good practice. Information Sharing in the Foundation Years is the culmination of this work. The report is accompanied by
- [Quality improvement](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning/quality-improvement/) - As a professional, you know that evidence shows high quality provision during the foundation years has a lasting impact on children’s outcomes, future learning and life chances. Quality provision in early education and childcare is secured through a workforce which is confident in: Working together Engaging with mums, dads and families Understanding the importance of
- [Early Years in Action](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-years-in-action/) - Teachers TV produced a series of videos called Early Years in Action. These videos explore good practice to use in your settings. Visit the Teachers Media website to view the videos Early Years in Action visits different areas across the UK, taking a look at how some schools deal with a range of issues, from
- [Achieving 2 year olds](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-education-entitlement-2/achieving-2-year-olds-2/) - Achieving 2 Year Olds (A2YO) is the Government’s delivery team supporting the roll out of 2 year old places. Watch the A2YO series of films showcasing the latest developments. Communicating the 2 year old offer to parents The Communicating with Parents toolkit is intended to help local authorities and the early years workforce communicate directly with all parents eligible
- [Early education entitlement](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/early-education-entitlement-2/) - Early education – 2, 3 and 4 year old offer High quality early education sits alongside health as an important determinant of children’s life chances. All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early education per week A growing number of disadvantaged 2 year olds are now accessing free early education and
- [Healthy development & integrated working](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/health-integration-in-practice-2/healthy-development/) - Good health is one of the most important determinants of a child’s life chances. All professionals working in the foundation years need to be involved in promoting and encouraging children’s healthy development. The Healthy Child Programme The Healthy Child Programme is the NHS framework for provision in the foundation years. It consists of a mixed approach
- [Healthy development & integrated working](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/health-integration-in-practice-3/healthy-development/) - Good health is one of the most important determinants of a child’s life chances. All professionals working in the foundation years need to be involved in promoting and encouraging children’s healthy development. The Healthy Child Programme The Healthy Child Programme is the NHS framework for provision in the foundation years. It consists of a mixed approach
- [Health & integration in practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/health-integration-in-practice-2/) - Good health is one of the most important determinants of a child’s life chances. All professionals working in the foundation years need to be involved in promoting and encouraging children’s healthy development. In this section we explore what works: Partnership working As professionals working in the foundation years, we all do our bit by
- [Health & integration in practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/health-integration-in-practice-3/) - Good health is one of the most important determinants of a child’s life chances. All professionals working in the foundation years need to be involved in promoting and encouraging children’s healthy development. In this section we explore what works: Partnership working As professionals working in the foundation years, we all do our bit by
- [Working with parents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/working-with-parents-2/) - Parents matter Mums and dads are the first and most important influence on their child’s development and future outcomes. What interactions take place in the home environment has more influence on a child's future achievement than innate ability, material circumstances or the quality of early years or school provision. The role that mums and dads play
- [Outcomes](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-2/outcomes/) - Early Years Foundation Stage Profile Data 2012-13 The new EYFS profile was introduced in September 2012 and the first assessments took place in the summer of 2013. The profile’s ‘emerging’, ‘expected’ and ‘exceeding’ scale is very different to the previous profile which used a 117 point scale. The number of early learning goals has also been
- [Quality improvement](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-2/quality-improvement/) - As a professional, you know that evidence shows high quality provision during the foundation years has a lasting impact on children’s outcomes, future learning and life chances. Quality provision in early education and childcare is secured through a workforce which is confident in: Working together Engaging with mums, dads and families Understanding the importance of
- [Quality improvement](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-3/quality-improvement/) - As a professional, you know that evidence shows high quality provision during the foundation years has a lasting impact on children’s outcomes, future learning and life chances. Quality provision in early education and childcare is secured through a workforce which is confident in: Working together Engaging with mums, dads and families Understanding the importance of
- [Early language](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-2/early-language/) - It is widely agreed that early language development is critical for future learning and school readiness. There is a wealth of evidence and research that you can draw on and study to support your understanding of this prime area of learning and development. Find out more from research: The role of language in children’s early educational outcomes –
- [Early language](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-3/early-language/) - It is widely agreed that early language development is critical for future learning and school readiness. There is a wealth of evidence and research that you can draw on and study to support your understanding of this prime area of learning and development. Find out more from research: The role of language in children’s early educational outcomes –
- [Pedagogy & early learning](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-2/) - We all know that findings from early childhood studies and neuroscience have shown that children’s early experiences are important in affecting health, behaviour and developmental outcomes. In their first three years, children develop physically, cognitively and emotionally at a faster rate than at any other time in their lives. All professionals need to respond to
- [Pedagogy & early learning](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/pedagogy-early-learning-3/) - We all know that findings from early childhood studies and neuroscience have shown that children’s early experiences are important in affecting health, behaviour and developmental outcomes. In their first three years, children develop physically, cognitively and emotionally at a faster rate than at any other time in their lives. All professionals need to respond to

## Events

- [Pathways to Progress: Stronger Practice in Early Language, Literacy and Mathematics](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pathways-to-progress-tickets-1983945405113?aff=oddtdtcreator) - Guest Speakers: BookTrust: Will Carr, Sophie Hedges ECMG: Catherine Gripton DFE: Joanne Mobbs, Masie Monroe
- [Supporting Children with SEND for Smooth Transitions](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/supporting-children-with-send-for-smooth-transitions-tickets-1742630186799?aff=oddtdtcreator) - Welcome to our online event: Supporting Children with SEND for Smooth Transitions! Join us on October 23, 2025 at 4:30 PM (Europe/London time) to learn valuable tips and strategies. We'll discuss ways to support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities during transitions. See you there! Featuring talks by the Department for Education, Ofsted and Dingley's Promise
- [Nurturing Nutrition: Building Healthy Foundations in the Early Years](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nurturing-nutrition-building-healthy-foundations-in-the-early-years-tickets-1345042200429?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) - Join us on Thursday 22nd May from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM on Microsoft Teams for Nurturing Nutrition: Building Healthy Foundations in the Early Years. This is an exciting opportunity to reconnect with the Foundation Years community as we focus on an essential aspect of early childhood development: nutrition and healthy eating. In this informative
- [Creating Inclusive Early Years Environments Event](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creating-inclusive-early-years-environments-tickets-1218463058809?aff=oddtdtcreator) - Join Foundation Years in Leeds this March for a free event on creating inclusive early years environments. Register now – spaces are limited About the Day This full-day, in-person event is your opportunity to dive into the critical topic of inclusivity in early years education. Designed for early years educators, school leaders, and sector professionals,
- [Foundation Years Live: Online](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-live-online-2/) - Agenda 4.30pm: Welcome and introduction Chaired by James Hempsall, Director, Coram Hempsall’s 4.35pm: About Foundation Years – getting involved Delivered by Lydia Hodges, Coram Family and Childcare 4.40pm: Childminder Consultation DfE will provide an outline of the childminder consultation, which is now open for responses, including a summary of their proposals and policy rationale
- [Foundation Years Live: Leeds](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/save-the-date-foundation-years-live/) - Agenda 10.00am: Welcome and Introduction Chaired by James Hempsall OBE, Director, Coram Hempsall’s 10.10am: DfE spotlight on: Family Hubs - Start for Life programme How the programme is transforming family support services, and the impact on children and families. 10.40am: EYFS practice topic: Meeting the needs of babies This session will be delivered by
- [Foundation Years Live: London](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-live/) - Agenda 10.00am Welcome and introduction, aim and purpose. James Hempsall OBE, Coram Hempsall’s. Our approach to Foundation Years. How to get involved. 10.10am DfE spotlight on: Covid Recovery Programme. 10.40am EYFS practice topic: SEND in the Early Years with Dominic Gunn 11.30am Break 11.45am Ofsted 12.45pm Lunch 1.35pm Three break out choices: Dominic Gunn, Specialist Teacher for
- [Foundation Years Live: Online](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-live-online/) - Agenda 10.00am Welcome and introduction James Hempsall OBE, Director, Coram Hempsall’s 10.05am About Foundation Years – getting involved Ellen Broome, Managing Director, Coram Family and Childcare 10.20am Early Years Stronger Practice Hubs The DfE Stronger Practice Hubs Programme Team, along with colleagues from their delivery partner the National Children’s Bureau, will give an overview of the Early
- [Foundation Years Live online event on 29 November](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-live-online-event-on-29-november/) - This event will feature updates from DfE, including information on the upcoming changes to the EYFS and an overview of the findings from the Evaluation of the EYFS 2021 Reforms report. When: 29 November, 4.30pm-6.30pm Where: Online Agenda DfE's overall childcare programme with Susie Owen, Director, Early Years, Childcare, Families and Analysis, DfE Upcoming EYFS
- [Foundation Years, 7 October, Nottingham](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/7-october-nottingham/) - In this session, we will be joined by Jamel Carly Campbell to discuss positive relationships in EYFS practice, Ofsted talking about two years on from the 2021 EYFS reforms, and Early Years Education specialist Jan Dubiel. Agenda 10.00 Welcome and introduction, aim and purpose. James Hempsall OBE, Hempsall’s. 10.05 Our approach to Foundation Years. How to get
- [22 September, Manchester](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/22-september-manchester/) - This in-person event will feature an update from DfE, an EYFS practice session on early maths with Karen Wilding, and discussion on physical development with Jackie Musgrave. Join us for a face-to-face event in Manchester on 22 September 2023 10.15-3.15. Location: Manchester Crowne Plaza City Centre 10.15 Welcome and introduction, aim and purpose. James Hempsall OBE,
- [Foundation Years Online Event, Wednesday 13 Sep 2023, 6- 8pm](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-online-event-wed-13-sep-2023-6-8pm/) - This online event will include an Early Years Foundation Stage Profile DfE update, Brighter Start: East London Early Years Stronger Practice Hubs on the ShREC approach, and Ofsted discussing two years on from the 2021 EYFS reforms. 6.00 Welcome and introduction, aim and purpose. James Hempsall OBE, Hempsall’s. 6.05 An introduction to a new era of Foundation
- [Foundation Years in Birmingham- 23 June](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-in-birmingham-23-june/) - Please note this event has now taken place. Join us for a face-to-face event in Birmingham to engage, connect and share best practice. When: 23 June, 10am-3pm Where: Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham, 245 Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2HQ Agenda: DfE welcome and update Early Years Professional Development Programme with Education Development Trust Effective pre-phonics practice with Astrea Trust Ofsted: The Best Start
- [Foundation Years online - Thursday 6 July](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-6-july/) - June 28, 2023 Foundation Years online – Thursday 6 July 2023
- [Foundation Years online event](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-online-event/) - You're invited to attend the first Foundation Years event of the year. Join us to engage, connect and support best practice in early years. This Free Microsoft Teams event will outline the aim and purpose pf Foundation Years, the plans for the year, and opportunities to get involved. There will be an update from DfE
- [Hempsall's coffee break - ‘How early years and childcare fits within wider outcomes in a current and possible future context’](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/hempsalls-coffee-break-how-early-years-and-childcare-fits-within-wider-outcomes-in-a-current-and-possible-future-context/) - Derren Hayes, Editor of Children and Young People Now magazine, will be joining this session to discuss how early years and childcare fits within wider outcomes in a current and possible future context. Derren has a unique perspective working across policy, news and developments across the children and young people’s sector.
- [Hempsall's coffee break - ‘Professional Love with Dr Jools Page – from policy to practice’](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/hempsalls-coffee-break-professional-love-with-dr-jools-page-from-policy-to-practice/) - Dr Jools Page has made a name for herself by developing theories and research on Professional Love in early years. She is now keen to hear from LAs about whether settings are drawing upon that work in their day-to-day practice, and if so, what does that look like? Join to discuss that and what a
- [Hempsall's Coffee Break with Sally Pearse](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/hempsalls-coffee-break-with-sally-pearse/) - Hempsall's Coffee Breaks are free online one-hour sessions for local authority early years and childcare staff and partners, which focus on a topic of the day. On Wednesday 2 February, 10am - 11am, Sally Pearse, Strategic Lead for Early Years (South Yorkshire Futures) and Director of the Early Years Community Research Centre (EYCRC), will join this Hempsall's Coffee
- [Early Years SEND Seminar ‘The Constant Gardener’](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/early-years-send-seminar-the-constant-gardener/) - As part of the Early Years SEND Partnership Project, nasen will be holding a DfE-funded virtual Early Years SEND Seminar on 1 March 2022, ‘The Constant Gardener’, for members of Local Authority Early Years SEND Teams, with a keynote by their new CEO Annamarie Hassall MBE. During the seminar, 3 Local Authorities, currently working on the
- [Meeting the Needs of Every Child](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/meeting-the-needs-of-every-child/) - nasen will be delivering another series of DfE funded webinars, ‘Meeting the Needs of Every Child’, for Early Years practitioners and childminders. The 2-hour webinar will include: Responsibilities of a PVI setting towards children with SEND The importance of the early identification of SEND What effective inclusive practice looks like in a PVI setting Developing positive
- [Youth and Family Hubs webinar](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/youth-and-family-hubs-webinar/) - As part of Children’s Mental Health week, on 10 February the National Centre for Family Hubs (NCFH) will hold a Youth and Family Hubs webinar, which will consider ways to ensure family hubs and the surrounding youth and family help systems are accessible and effective in supporting young people.
- [Business Map – A national webinar for early years and childcare providers](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/business-map-a-national-webinar-for-early-years-and-childcare-providers/) - DfE has funded Hempsall’s to deliver a new national webinar for all types of early years and childcare provider. You can book your FREE place(s) today. Managing an early years and childcare setting, whether it be a homebased childminder, out of school club, a small voluntary playgroup, a nursery or a chain, a school or
- [Business Map – A national webinar for early years and childminders](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/business-map-a-national-webinar-for-early-years-and-childminders/) - DfE has funded Hempsall’s to deliver a new national webinar for all types of early years and childcare provider. You can book your FREE place(s) today. Managing an early years and childcare setting, whether it be a homebased childminder, out of school club, a small voluntary playgroup, a nursery or a chain, a school or
- [Changing Lives Through Childcare](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/changing-lives-through-childcare/) - Join Hempsall's and other family-facing professionals to develop your knowledge of 15 hours childcare for least advantaged two-year-olds, alongside other funded childcare and help with childcare costs. We will provide you with the latest information and offer practical ideas to achieve childcare solutions for the parents and children you work with. We will cover: the
- [*SOLD OUT* Learn - Explore - Debate (5): Putting wellbeing at the heart of our early years practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/learn-explore-debate-5-putting-wellbeing-at-the-heart-of-our-early-years-practice/) - Update 12/11: We are sorry that the Learn - Explore - Debate events are now fully booked. We recognise there is a huge demand for support and a desire to connect with your colleagues in the sector. There may be cancellations closer to the event so keep an eye on the Eventbrite pages. If you
- [*SOLD OUT* Learn - Explore - Debate (4): Putting wellbeing at the heart of our early years practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/learn-explore-debate-4-putting-wellbeing-at-the-heart-of-our-early-years-practice/) - Update 12/11: We are sorry that the Learn - Explore - Debate events are now fully booked. We recognise there is a huge demand for support and a desire to connect with your colleagues in the sector. There may be cancellations closer to the event so keep an eye on the Eventbrite pages. If you
- [*SOLD OUT* Learn - Explore - Debate (3): Putting wellbeing at the heart of our early years practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/learn-explore-debate-3-putting-wellbeing-at-the-heart-of-our-early-years-practice/) - Update 12/11: We are sorry that the Learn - Explore - Debate events are now fully booked. We recognise there is a huge demand for support and a desire to connect with your colleagues in the sector. There may be cancellations closer to the event so keep an eye on the Eventbrite pages. If you
- [*SOLD OUT* Learn - Explore - Debate (2): Putting wellbeing at the heart of our early years practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/learn-explore-debate-2-putting-wellbeing-at-the-heart-of-our-early-years-practice/) - Update 12/11: We are sorry that the Learn - Explore - Debate events are now fully booked. We recognise there is a huge demand for support and a desire to connect with your colleagues in the sector. There may be cancellations closer to the event so keep an eye on the Eventbrite pages. If you
- [*SOLD OUT* Learn - Explore - Debate (1): Putting wellbeing at the heart of our early years practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/learn-explore-debate-1-putting-wellbeing-at-the-heart-of-our-early-years-practice/) - Update 12/11: We are sorry that the Learn - Explore - Debate events are now fully booked. We recognise there is a huge demand for support and a desire to connect with your colleagues in the sector. There may be cancellations closer to the event so keep an eye on the Eventbrite pages. If you
- [What the UK thinks about the early years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/what-the-uk-thinks-about-the-early-years/) - This year, the Royal Foundation and IPSOS MORI conducted an extensive body of research to hear what the nation has to say about the importance of the early years. This forum will officially launch the results of the research. To register your interest, please follow the booking link above.
- [The X-factor: What makes a nursery thrive?](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/the-x-factor-what-makes-a-nursery-thrive/) - What are the opportunities and challenges in today’s climate, and crucially, what are the elements that help a nursery to be successful against the odds? This webinar will offer attendees the chance to learn from the expertise of settings that are thriving during difficult times. Presenters include: Sarah Steel - Founder, Old Station Nursery Stacey
- [The paperless nursery: How technology can improve practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/the-paperless-nursery-how-technology-can-improve-practice/) - This webinar, brought to you by Nursery World & Nursery Story, will focus on how technology can help early years settings save time and money, and ultimately improve practice. It will cover the concerns settings have about technology and how these might be overcome, as well as the benefits of going paperless, particularly in a
- [We Need to Talk Live - Where speech makes its mark!](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/we-need-to-talk-live-where-speech-makes-its-mark/) - We Need to Talk Live is a new platform where leading thinkers and influencers from the education, health, employment and charity sectors come together to make their mark through a series of thought-provoking speeches, highlighting how fundamental communication is to all aspects of life. Speakers on the day include: Carrie Grant | broadcaster and campaigner Lord
- [Learning with Purpose in the Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/learning-with-purpose-in-the-early-years/) - A critical analysis of policy versions of pedagogy and curriculum in ECE Dr Elizabeth Wood, Professor of Education, University of Sheffield Curriculum making with children: Respecting and responding to diverse interests, experiences and ideas Dr Liz Chesworth, Lecturer in Early Childhood Education, University of Sheffield
- [Foundation Years Webinar: Early Years Foundation Stage Reforms Consultation](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-webinar-early-years-foundation-stage-reforms-consultation/) - Join us on Thursday 16 January at 5pm for a free Foundation Years webinar on the early years foundation stage reforms consultation. Henna Jawaid, Team Leader: EYFS Reform Team at the Department for Education, and representatives from the National Centre for Social Research and NCB will be joining us live to talk to the early years sector about
- [BECERA Conference 2020: Home Learning Cultures](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/becera-conference-2020-home-learning-cultures/) - This conference seeks to explore the multiple ways that home learning cultures shape and develop the whole child and its fundamental part in the relationship between setting and home.
- [NurseryWorld Show 2020](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/nurseryworld-show-2020/) - This 2 day show offers professional early years seminars, masterclasses, live theatre and an exhibition area.
- [The Big EY Debate](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/the-big-ey-debate/) - This event from Ceeda Research is aimed at setting owners, investors, managers, local authorities, and organisations working with the early years sector. The event will be live streamed to a network of regional hosts.
- [Makerspaces for learning: STEM/STEAM in the early years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/makerspaces-for-learning-stem-steam-in-the-early-years/) - This conference, organised by Early Education, University of Sheffield (MakEY project) and STEM Learning UK, will share ideas on curriculum approaches to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning in Early Childhood Education.
- [Foundation Years webinar: Early Years Qualifications and Apprenticeships](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/foundation-years-webinar-early-years-qualifications-and-apprenticeships/) - Join us on Wednesday 30 October at 5pm for a free Foundation Years webinar on the qualification requirements and apprenticeship opportunities available for the early years workforce. We are delighted that Ian Ward, Team Leader Early Years Workforce at the Department for Education, will be joining us live to talk to the early years sector and answer
- [Early years education in England: the early learning goals, developing the workforce and the impact of Ofsted’s inspection framework](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/early-years-education-in-england-the-early-learning-goals-developing-the-workforce-and-the-impact-of-ofsteds-inspection-framework-2/) - This seminar will look at the next steps for early years education in England - focusing on early learning goals, workforce development, and the impact of the new inspection framework. The conference will be an opportunity to examine findings in the independent evaluation of the early years assessment pilot, which is currently being conducted by
- [Talk To Your Baby 2020: Chat, play, read](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/talk-to-your-baby-2020-chat-play-read/) - This year’s theme is 'chat, play, read', building on the current policy focus on the home learning environment. In addition to presenting on Small Talk, the National Literacy Trust’s local programme to improve the home learning environment, the conference will also include the latest research, policy and practice with speakers from across the sector, and delegates
- [Early years education in England: the early learning goals, developing the workforce and the impact of Ofsted’s inspection framework](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/early-years-education-in-england-the-early-learning-goals-developing-the-workforce-and-the-impact-of-ofsteds-inspection-framework/) - This seminar will look at the next steps for early years education in England - focusing on early learning goals, workforce development, and the impact of the new inspection framework. The conference will be an opportunity to examine findings in the independent evaluation of the early years assessment pilot, which is currently being conducted by
- [Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative annual conference](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/unicef-uk-baby-friendly-initiative-annual-conference/) - As well as a programme of speakers, the conference will feature an exhibition area for companies and organisations working in infant feeding, relationship building and child health.
- [Childminding UK Annual Conference: Emotional Resilience and School Readiness](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/childminding-uk-annual-conference-emotional-resilience-and-school-readiness/) - This conference focuses on emotional resilience and school readiness with speakers Michael Pettival and Neil Griffiths. It is an event for childminders as well as colleagues from all types of childcare settings.
- [Public Health England Annual Conference 2019](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/even-longer-spanning-event-which-also-happens-to-have-a-massive-title/) - This year’s conference focuses on some of the areas where PHE can make the greatest improvements in health and reduce health inequalities. Among the key themes: promoting a smoke free generation; giving children the best start in life.
- [Perinatal and infant mental health: relationships matter](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/perinatal-and-infant-mental-health-relationships-matter/) - This Institute of Health Visitors conference will share, discuss and reflect on the latest evidence, research and experiences of PIMH care in the context of relationships being fundamental to good parental and infant mental health.
- [weekend event](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/weekend-event/) - Some content
- [past event](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/past-event/) - abreabe abra bre a
- [Nulla imperdiet et mauris ac dignissim.](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/nulla-imperdiet-et-mauris-ac-dignissim/) - Duis ut odio sed ante eleifend sodales eget non purus. Mauris a nibh dapibus eros eleifend mollis. Mauris tincidunt sagittis maximus. Donec congue varius lorem id gravida. Aliquam sapien tellus, auctor nec pharetra sed, maximus non eros. Quisque quis urna consequat, feugiat risus eget, volutpat enim.
- [What next for Children and Family Services?](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/what-next-for-children-and-family-services/) - What next for Children and Family Services? A new era, a new challenge for local authorities! Wednesday 9th November, London Children and family services are at a crucial juncture. With Local Authority budgets under unprecedented strain and profound demographic change, councils have to find new ways to meet both familiar and new challenges. At a
- [Business Skills for Early Years](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/business-skills-for-early-years/) - FREE REGIONAL SEMINARS 4Children is working with the Office for Public Management and Social Investment Business to deliver a programme of business skills development and support within the early years and childcare sector. These seminars will offer the opportunity to input into this research training programme and learn from already existing good practice resources. London
- [Putting the new early years policy into practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/events/putting-the-new-early-years-policy-into-practice/) - Following on from the sell out summer seminars, 4Children is delivering another round of regional seminars for those who are delivering early years services. As lead in the Early Years Strategic Partnership, 4Children has a unique position as the conduit of communication to the sector and also a responsibility to feed back to Government. These

## Locations

- [Remote](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/remote-2/)
- [Remote](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/remote/)
- [Microsoft Teams (Online Event)](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/microsoft-teams-online-event/)
- [Microsoft Teams](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/microsoft-teams-2/)
- [Microsoft Teams](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/microsoft-teams/)
- [The Met Hotel Leeds](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/the-met-hotel-leeds/)
- [The Met Hotel](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/the-met-hotel/)
- [Thistle London Marble Arch](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/thistle-london-marble-arch/)
- [Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/mercure-nottingham-sherwood-hotel/)
- [Crowne Plaza Manchester City Centre](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/crowne-plaza-manchester-city-centre/)
- [Leonardo Royal Hotel](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/leonardo-royal-hotel/)
- [Liverpool](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/liverpool/)
- [London](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/london-3/)
- [South Yorkshire](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/south-yorkshire/)
- [Warwickshire](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/warwickshire/)
- [Birmingham](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/birmingham/)
- [London](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/london-2/)
- [London](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/london/)
- [Goldsmiths, University of London](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/goldsmiths-university-of-london/)
- [Millennium Point](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/millennium-point/)
- [Central London](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/central-london/)
- [SEC Centre](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/sec-centre/)
- [Hilton Hotel](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/hilton-hotel/)
- [Perinatal and infant mental health: relationships matter](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/perinatal-and-infant-mental-health-relationships-matter/)
- [test](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/test/)
- [effusion](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/effusion/)
- [Double Tree Leeds](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/double-tree-leeds/)
- [Arts Millenium Building](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/arts-millenium-building/)
- [The Crane Bar](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/the-crane-bar/)
- [Taaffes Bar](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/taaffes-bar/)
- [4Children Head Offive](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/4children-head-offive/)
- [4Children Head Office, City Reach](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/locations/4children-head-office-city-reach/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/uncategorized/)
- [Homepage Slider](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/homepage-slider/)
- [News](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/news/)
- [Practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/practice/) - The latest practice guidance for those working in the early years sector.
- [Resources](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/resources/) - The most important resources for those working in the early years sector.
- [Policy](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/policy/) - The latest policy news and guidance for those working in the early years sector.
- [SEND](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/practice/send-practice/)
- [Parents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/resources/parents/)
- [EYFS reforms](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/eyfs-reforms/)
- [Blog](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/blog/)
- [Newsletter archive](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/news/newsletter-archive/)
- [Newsflash](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/news/newsflash/)
- [Vodcasts](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/category/resources/vodcasts/)

## Tags

- [EYFS](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/eyfs/)
- [language](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/language/)
- [communication](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/communication/)
- [play](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/play/)
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- [EYFS 2014](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/eyfs-2014/)
- [EYFS Framework 2014](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/eyfs-framework-2014/)
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- [labour](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/labour/)
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- [new parents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/new-parents/)
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- [single parent](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/single-parent/)
- [young parents](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/young-parents/)
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- [baby health](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/baby-health/)
- [child health record](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/child-health-record/)
- [immunisation](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/immunisation/)
- [newborn health](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/newborn-health/)
- [red book](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/red-book/)
- [birth register](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/birth-register/)
- [parental rights](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/parental-rights/)
- [baby care](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/baby-care/)
- [benefits](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/benefits/)
- [child tax credits](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/child-tax-credits/)
- [childcare cost](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/childcare-cost/)
- [HMRC](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/hmrc/)
- [maternity grant](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/maternity-grant/)
- [universal credit](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/universal-credit/)
- [carers](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/carers/)
- [disabled child](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/disabled-child/)
- [baby development](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/baby-development/)
- [vaccination](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/vaccination/)
- [baby food](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/baby-food/)
- [breast feeding](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/breast-feeding/)
- [nutrition](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/nutrition/)
- [local services](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/local-services/)
- [reception class](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/reception-class/)
- [family friendly](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/family-friendly/)
- [SEND](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/send/)
- [infant mental health](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/infant-mental-health/)
- [early trauma](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/early-trauma/)
- [childcare choices](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/childcare-choices/)
- [vodcast](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/vodcast/)
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- [assessment](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/assessment/)
- [good practice](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/good-practice/)
- [SPEECH](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/speech/)
- [Covid-19](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/covid-19/)
- [neurodiversity](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/neurodiversity/)
- [EYSEND](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/eysend/)
- [Education and Health plans](https://www.foundationyears.org.uk/tag/education-and-health-plans/)