From September 2024 there will be significant updates to the list of full and relevant qualifications:

• If a qualification was started before September 2014 and completed after that date, it follows the pre-September 2014 list on the DfE spreadsheet.
• The post September 2014 tab on the DfE spreadsheet has many differences to qualifications that came before, most full and relevant level 3’s must contain the words Early Years Educator.
• Updates include new qualifications such as Montessori Level 3 and more information on degrees then the previous version.
• Do check degrees as many require the QAA benchmark for assessment to make them count as a level 3 in ratios
• There are other elements to consider such as English level 2 or equivalent for practitioners you can get more information in the Early Years Qualification Requirements and Standards document by the DFE.
• New managers require a maths level 2 or equivalent or have 2 years to obtain this in line with the EYFS 2024.

We also want to highlight the new document providing guidance and support for those entering the field, titled "Pathways into Early Years."

Early Years qualification checker can be found here.

This 18 month accredited and nationally recognised qualification is running this year and funding is available for Early Years settings. The course is designed for leaders in nurseries and childminders with leadership responsibilities.

The closing date for applications is 17 September 2024. Please click below for further information.

Ofsted guidance on inspecting registered early years and childcare providers under the education inspection framework has been updated in September 2024.

Summary of changes:

Throughout: Ofsted has clarified references to funded places and what should be considered on inspection.  

Paragraphs: 50, 174, 203 and footnote 10: wording amended to reflect how the inspector will consider the context of the setting, including where relevant the ongoing impact of COVID-19.  

Paragraphs 78, 130, 217 and 247: wording updated to align with part 2 and part 3 of the inspection handbook.  

Good grade descriptor for Quality of Education: amendments to bullet 3 regarding an ambitious curriculum for all children.

Inadequate grade descriptor for Quality of Education: amendments to bullet 4 regarding disadvantaged children.

Early years inspection handbook - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

There are a wide range of exciting activities taking place this term in Boston Manor Park. Activities range from yoga and singing to woodland adventure clubs for toddlers. Further information is detailed in the document below, for you to share with your families. There is something for everyone.

Do you know about the Hounslow Parent Carer Forum (HPCF)? They meet monthly to discuss real issues that affect families such as health, education and employment. Professionals from organisations including the Local Authority are invited to share their current plans and to hear what parents have to say. It is also a place to share information and to ask questions.

To sign up or find out more, please click here.

The Standards and Testing Agency (STA) contracted the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) to develop and deliver the RBA. This includes the academic year 2024 to 2025. You can find the relevant information and guidance for this below.

NFER’s privacy notices explain what personal data is collected and how this is processed.

If you have any questions about the current RBA, please contact the reception baseline assessment helpline on 0330 088 4171 or email receptionbaseline@nfer.ac.uk.

Reception baseline assessment: collection page - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)