Bolton Start Well

Following the 2023 consultation, the Department for Education has published the updated Early Years Foundation Stage frameworks, and the changes are now in effect.  

You can read more about the changes in this Foundation Years blog post, and Foundation Years have answered some common questions in this myth-busting Q&A.  

Some notable changes include, but are not limited to:  

• The creation of two versions of the EYFS: one for childminders and one for group and school-based providers. 
• The creation of a new document setting out Early Years qualification requirements and standards. 
• Removing the requirement for Level 3 practitioners to hold a Level 2 maths qualification to count within staff:child ratios and instead place this requirement on managers.  
• Students and apprentices can now count in ratios at the level below their level of study if the manager believes they are competent and responsible to do so. 
• Settings may provide opportunities for children to develop and use their home language in play and learning, previously this requirement stated this ‘must’ be done. 
• Childminder assistants can hold the role of key person. 
• Removal of the requirement for childminders to complete EYFS training before registration. Childminders will still be required to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the EYFS. 

Please encourage the reading and sharing of the new frameworks and resources within your networks to ensure that all early years providers and practitioners feel confident and informed of the changes.