What can you tell me about the new framework?

Question

I hear that there is a new framework being introduced in september, can you tell me anything about it?

Answer 1

Hi Barbed, thanks for asking.

The Early Years Foundation Stage begins in september, but most of us have already begun adapting our systems to ensure we meet the statutory requirements and practice guidance.

The documents mean that the early years sector are sharing the same guidance and they are replacing the Birth to three, foundation stage guidance and the national standards and encompassing Every Child Matters.

There are four themes called principles, A unique child, Positive relationships, Enabling Environments and Learning and development. Each theme is supported by commitments, and these are the things that every setting should strive to ensure in their provision.

I am very happy with the new framework and my nurseries are well on the way to auditing their services to ensure we provide a balanced range of learning experiences for each unique child and their families, whilst prioritising their health and safety at all times.

It is a new era of professionalism for the early years and supported by early years professionals which the government intends to be leading all settings by 2015.

Answer 2

http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/eyfs/

This is the Early Years Foundation Stage---is based on the principle of combining three main areas:

-birth to Three

-Foundation Stage

-Every Child Matters

It is a framework for 0-5years olds and every setting that is OFSTED inspection MUST follow it. It will be the basis of the inspection criteria.

You will need to show evidence that you are providing all of the criteria...for the 'areas of development' there is a 'Learning Journey' which is their achievement record. Practitioners put in photos, observations, notes etc to show what the child is learning and 'next steps' to move them on. It also has a section where practitioners highlight to show what level the child is at.

The main difference between this framework and the last is that instead of 'targets' there are now 'development matters' -these are split into age groups which all overlap as all child develop at different rate. This means you see a general 'norm' rather than before school you must do this and this and that!