EYFS - Six Months On

In the six months since the launch of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the National Childminding Association (NCMA) has found that registered childminders recently inspected are successfully delivering the framework.

 

Feedback from more than 120 registered childminders inspected in the first six months of the EYFS suggests that the inspection process was broadly a positive experience, giving them an opportunity to reflect on and talk about their practice. From the interviews NCMA carried out, the majority of registered childminders received Good or Outstanding grades since September. 

 

Claire Coulson, from Northumberland, received a Good grade. Claire said


“It was my first inspection and it went really well. I find the EYFS is getting easier. It took me a while to get my head round it as there isn’t a set way of doing things. It is open to interpretation and you have to have the confidence to find a way of delivering it that suits you. It makes it easier for me to go in and chat with the school and nursery so we can all exchange ideas and tips on delivering the EYFS.”

 

Andrew Fletcher, Director of Communications at NCMA, said:


“NCMA has spoken to childminders across England who were among the first to be inspected under the EYFS framework. We are encouraged by the largely positive response – in particular the usefulness of the self-evaluation form. While many found filling in the form time-consuming at first, the majority found it helped the inspection to go smoothly and encouraged them to record and reflect on good practice.

 

“We look forward to Ofsted’s first detailed report on inspection outcomes. Although still quite early on, what is clear from our evidence to date is that most childminders are finding they are able to deliver the EYFS with confidence and with positive outcomes in their inspections.
 
“To ensure this continues, it is crucial that local authorities and other organisations maintain on-going support for registered childminders delivering EYFS, through training opportunities and quality improvement programmes such as childminding networks.”