Bolton Start Well

The new early years foundation stage (EYFS) framework was published on the 31 March 2021 and should be used by all Ofsted registered early years providers in England from September 2021.

Understand why the reforms are happening:

The changes to the EYFS statutory framework are being made to:

• Improve outcomes age 5, particularly in early language and especially for disadvantaged children,
• Reduce workload- cutting the amount of time spent gathering unnecessary evidence; spending less time on tracking and data collection to enable more time with children
• To promote good oral health as a statutory expectation

Understand what the changes are:

Watch the new DfE vodcasts below for essential messages from the DfE and Ofsted.
For headteachers, senior leadership and governors in schools, click here
For PVIs and Childminders, click here

View the recorded Start Well CPD sessions on Early Years reforms: 

Email: startwellbookings@boltongov.uk to request the Headteacher, EY lead in school or PVI/Childminder recording

Be aware of changes to safeguarding and welfare requirements:

There are some minor changes to the safeguarding and welfare section, including a new requirement to promote the good oral health of children. The changes are summarised here

Look at changes to Development Matters: non-statutory curriculum guidance:

Development Matters is not compulsory, but the DfE do recommend it is used with the new statutory framework. The new version written by Dr Julian Grenier is shorter and the age bands have been simplified to deter tracking activities that do not support child development.

Check out the new online DfE resource bank: 

Help for Early Years Providers  to help apply the changes to the EYFS framework. Lots of information, videos, pictures and activity suggestions.

Where do I start?

In order to understand the changes and make plans to implement them from September 2021, evaluate and reflect upon what is currently working well to build upon and plan to address any areas for development. Not everything will be completed for September 1st 2021.

Join the Start Well team on the next EYFS reforms sessions so we can support your journey:
15/06/21 | 1:30pm - 3:00pm | EYFS Reforms, Leaders and Managers Network Discussion: PVIs and Childminders
15/06/21 | 4:00pm - 5:30pm | EYFS Reforms, Leaders and Managers Network Discussion: Schools
16/06/21 | 10:00am - 11:30am | EYFS Reforms, Leaders and Managers Network Discussion: Schools
16/06/21 | 6:30pm - 7:45pm | EYFS Reforms, Leaders and Managers Network Discussion: PVIs and Childminders