The Key to Excellence in Education Julie Cooper, MP for Burnley Economic prosperity and equality of opportunity are worthy goals which can only be achieved if we invest in our people. We cannot afford to waste talent nor can we afford to have unfulfilled potential. To develop talent and to fulfil potential we need excellence in education … [Read more...] about Julie Cooper MP supports The Save our Early Years Campaign
Getting that Ofsted outstanding grade
How to achieve that Ofsted outstanding grade during an Ofsted inspection Since the introduction of the Common Inspection Framework, it is becoming increasing difficult to achieve the Ofsted outstanding grade during an Ofsted inspection. To achieve the outstanding grade, it is down to settings to ensure they are meeting the EYFS requirements and … [Read more...] about Getting that Ofsted outstanding grade
How to manage children’s dietary requirements in childcare settings
How can practitioners manage children's dietary requirements? With communities become more diverse and allergies on the rise, it is important that practitioners are aware of all children’s dietary requirements. Managing this can be difficult especially in a large childcare settings especially with children who are not aware themselves of their … [Read more...] about How to manage children’s dietary requirements in childcare settings
What is School Readiness?
What is all the fuss about school readiness and how do practitioners play a part? School readiness is always causing a lot of confusion for parents and often for childcare practitioners. School readiness is vaguely described in the foundation stage as "Children reaching a good level of development in the prime areas and literacy and … [Read more...] about What is School Readiness?
We are Early Years Educators not Teachers
What is the difference between an Early Years Educator and a Teacher? For many people including parents and practitioners, there is no difference between an early years educators and a teacher. However, there is a vast difference. Early years practitioners or educators are often highly trained, highly skilled individuals who are … [Read more...] about We are Early Years Educators not Teachers
Why the 30hrs of free childcare could have a negative impact
A Lancashire nursery speaks out about why the 30hrs free childcare could have a negative impact Currently, children are entitled to 15hrs free childcare. However, in certain areas from September, this will be increased to 30hrs. The Government scheme is to help working parents with childcare. It was announced back in February by Sam Gyimah … [Read more...] about Why the 30hrs of free childcare could have a negative impact
Lack of support for deaf children
Deaf children are not being supported It is more important than ever that children who are born deaf at birth are given the support they need in the early years. Babies are now screened shortly after birth to ensure any children with hearing problems are identified and given the support they need to achieve and thrive in the early years. … [Read more...] about Lack of support for deaf children
Creating a mark making shed outside
Incorporating mark making outside using a wooden shed Have you got a wooden shed that you could turn into a mark making shed? This would create a fantastic area outside, encouraging children to develop their mark making skills. This idea has been seen in many settings outdoor areas, and children thoroughly enjoy accessing it, deciding on what … [Read more...] about Creating a mark making shed outside
Making a fairy garden
How to make an interactive fairy garden Children will thoroughly enjoy spending a considerable amount of time exploring a fairy garden; These magical interactive play areas are fantastic for helping developing children imagination skills. Children can be easily absorbed in their magical adventures, learning news skills as … [Read more...] about Making a fairy garden
The importance of quality Early Years Settings
Why quality early years settings are so important “So you’re just a baby sitter” or “you just sit and play with children all day” are comments heard all too often by early years practitioners, however, this is not the case and yes it may be playing with children, but the impact of this play on children’s development is huge. Early education … [Read more...] about The importance of quality Early Years Settings