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Each provider on the Early Years Register will be inspected at least once by March 2030 and then again within a 4-year period, replacing the current 6-year window. If Ofsted has concerns about a provider, inspectors will, of course, visit more frequently.
The change will also see the first inspection of newly registered providers happen more quickly. From next month, Ofsted will usually inspect a new provider within 18 months of registration, rather than the current 30 months.
The new inspection windows will be phased in gradually. Providers who have already been inspected under the previous arrangements will gradually transition to the new 4-year window before 2030.
Ofsted to inspect early years providers more frequently - GOV.UK
Screens are part of everyday life for young families. With 98% of two-year-olds watching screens daily, avoiding them altogether isn't realistic — but managing them well can make a difference to how young children grow and develop. Here's what you need to know about the government's new free guidance for parents. Baby and toddler screen time guidance - Best Start in Life
Last month the early education minister wrote to early years providers highlighting some of the planned changes to the EYFS in relation to sleep, the expectation is that even though the EYFS will not be updated until September that all providers should be compliant with them now. This updated wording has been developed with input from the Lullaby Trust, medical experts and Ofsted and is as follows: Babies and children must be placed down to sleep safely. For children under 2 years old, providers must ensure that:
- Children are placed down on their back in their own separate sleep space on a firm flat surface such as a cot, bed or mattress on the floor. Babies aged 1 year and under must only be placed to sleep in a cot.
- Sleep spaces should only contain a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight bedding which is firmly tucked in around the child below their shoulders to prevent head covering. Alternatively, a well fitted baby sleep bag may be used. Check the manufacturer recommendations before using a baby sleep bag.
- Where blankets are used, the child is placed feet-to-foot at the bottom of the cot, with blankets tucked in.
- Cots must not contain extra items such as toys, pillows, extra blankets, bumpers, wedges or straps.
- Children should not get too hot or cold. The recommended room temperature for babies is 16 – 20˚C.
- Children’s heads are not covered.
- Children under six months of age must always have an adult with them in the same room for every sleep. All children must be frequently checked when sleeping.
- Children are always within sight and hearing of staff when sleeping. Providers must ensure that all staff read NHS advice on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)-NHS . More information on safer sleep guidance is available from The Lullaby Trust.
MD Letter
The new version of Working Together To Safeguard Children 2026 was published on Wednesday 18th March, The statutory framework sets out the legislation relevant to safeguarding. The DfE has also published a summary of changes. Working together to safeguard children - GOV.UK
I am getting in touch regarding an upcoming research trial of the Positive Early Childhood Education (PECE) programme, funded by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) and independently evaluated by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen).
PECE is a professional development programme that supports early years practitioners to create warm, consistent and responsive environments that promote children’s emotional, behavioural and cognitive self-regulation. The programme combines a self-paced online learning element for educators with coaching support from a trained setting leader, and is designed to fit within everyday nursery practice.
We are currently inviting early years settings across England to take part in the trial. As part of the evaluation, participating settings will either:
- receive the PECE professional development programme and implementation support, or
- continue with their usual practice while contributing to the national evaluation.
We are contacting local authority early years leads to ask whether you would be willing to share this opportunity with nurseries and early years settings in your area, for example through newsletters, networks or direct communications.
Taking part offers settings the opportunity to contribute to important national evidence on supporting young children’s development. Settings allocated to receive the programme will also benefit from access to funded professional development and ongoing implementation support.
if helpful, we have included some suggested copy below that can be adapted for your communications.
Do let me know in case of any questions; settings can also contact the project team directly at EarlyYearsPECEproject@triplep.uk.net to find out more.
Many thanks in advance for your support.
Best wishes, Mari
Opportunity for nurseries to take part in an EEF-funded early years trial
Early years settings are invited to help shape national research on supporting young children’s development by taking part in the evaluation of the Positive Early Childhood Education (PECE) programme. PECE is a professional development programme that helps early years practitioners create warm, consistent and responsive environments that support children’s emotional, behavioural and cognitive self-regulation.
The study is funded by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) and independently evaluated by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen). Participation is free and financial contributions are provided to recognise staff involvement.
Day nurseries, pre-schools, nursery schools and nursery classes in primary schools may be eligible if they have at least 16 children aged 3-4 attending at least 10 hours per week. Settings must also be able to:
- Nominate a setting manager or senior leader who is based within the setting and can undertake the PECE Coach Role
- Confirm that they are not taking part in another EEF trial involving 3-4 year olds during the same academic year (except the Maths Champions Scale-up programme)
- Confirm that they have not delivered the PECE programme within the last five years, and that they do not currently offer a Triple P parenting programme to parents in their setting.
To find out more, visit https://www.triplep-parenting.uk.net/uk/triple-p/pece-program-eef-trial/ or contact EarlyYearsPECEproject@triplep.uk.net. Likewise, if you are an eligible setting and would like to take part in the trial, you can express your interest here.
Strong Practice Hub West Midlands is pleased to highlight an upcoming virtual session from the EAL Curriculum Toolkit Network: Holistic and Inclusive Assessment for EAL Learners.
This online event will take place on 28 April, 6.30–7.30pm, offering practitioners the opportunity to explore effective, inclusive approaches to assessing children who are learning English as an Additional Language. The session will support settings to develop assessment practices that recognise the whole child, value home languages and ensure EAL learners are fully understood and supported in their early development.
Practitioners can register online to secure their place.
EAL - Holistic and Inclusive Assessment for EAL learners
We are pleased to share details of the first 0–5 focused parenting group delivered through the Best Start in Life initiative. This new offer is designed to support parents and carers with practical guidance, early child development information and opportunities to build confidence in supporting their child’s learning at home.
Please share this information with parents, carers and any relevant stakeholders within your organisation so families can benefit from the support available.
Thanks so much,
Laurie
For those settings that use Birth to Five Matters, please find the link here to the draft revision of the document:
Bto5M-review-Draft-March-2026.pdf
Alison has been an integral part of the Early Years community for an incredible 23 years. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in delivering high‑quality support and professional development to Early Years practitioners, teachers and senior leaders across the county, positively influencing the learning and development of our youngest children.
Alison will be fondly remembered for her dedication to early years education and care, her commitment to visiting schools and nurseries and her unwavering focus on ensuring that children receive the very best start. Her expertise, passion and long‑standing service have left a lasting legacy within Shropshire.
We congratulate Alison on all she has achieved as a valued member of staff, and we extend our thanks for her many years of hard work.
Thank you, Alison, we wish you a long, happy and peaceful retirement.
Ofsted to inspect early years providers more frequently - GOV.UK
From April 2026, Ofsted will move to a 4‑year inspection window instead of the current 6‑year cycle. Newly registered providers will also be inspected sooner—within 18 months rather than 30. This forms part of the DfE’s Best Start in Life strategy and aims to give parents more up‑to‑date assurance about quality and safety.
School readiness - Best Start in Life
Supporting children to feel ready for school is a shared responsibility between early years providers and families. Everything practitioners do in nursery, alongside the experiences children have at home, plays a vital role in preparing them for the transition into Reception.
https://www.shropshirelg.net/media/uzeh3hlb/transition-document-from-setting-to-school_september_2025.docx
Ensuring a smooth transition into school can be found on the Shropshire Learning Gateway (SLG). The transition document available, provides a clear and structured guide to help schools gain a strong understanding of each child before they start Reception. By sharing key information about children’s strengths, needs and interests, the document supports continuity of learning and helps schools plan effectively for each child’s start to school.
We are still running the blended learning option for the Paediatric First Aid Training (6 hours theory online (learners do not need to complete the online in one sitting they can go in and out of it until completed) then a 6 hour practical session).
All of our courses are Ofsted + CIW approved and run through our awarding body FAIB.
Open course places are £90.00 + VAT per learner (£108.00 inclusive of VAT)
Click on the green link below to take you to our website where you can choose your date for the practical session(s) and book in directly (Or just email or call if you prefer)
https://cognetosh.arlo.co/w/
Or………
If you have a group of learners…….
Our Private blended learning courses (We send the trainer to you on site) are £645.00 + VAT (£774.00 inclusive of VAT) for up to 12 learners.
We can run the practical session on site with you any day or afternoons/evenings of the week.
Either register your interest through the link above or email us directly (or call).
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
We are still offering Elearning courses (please email us or call if you wish to book):
ONLINE ELEARNING COURSES:
(Prices below are per learner)
Level 2 Food Safety – £20.00 + VAT (£24.00 inclusive of VAT)
Basic Fire Safety Awareness - £20.00 + VAT (£24.00 inclusive of VAT)
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) - £25.00 + VAT (£30.00 inclusive of VAT)
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Fire Extinguisher - £20.00 + VAT (£24.00 inclusive of VAT)
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Fire Marshal - £25.00 + VAT (£30.00 inclusive of VAT)
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Infection Control - £20.00 + VAT (£24.00 inclusive of VAT)
Safeguarding Children - £25.00 + VAT (£30.00 inclusive of VAT)
Workplace Health and Safety - £25.00 + VAT (£30.00 inclusive of VAT)
Either email us info@cognet.training or call us on 01905 745 457 for more info and to book.
Or if you have any other training needs please get in touch.
Take care and stay safe J
Warm regards
Craig
Craig Ratcliffe
Pricing Structure
Shropshire LA state-funded schools (maintained and academies) and Shropshire Early Years settings are in Group 1
Independent schools and all other schools outside Shropshire including Telford & Wrekin are in Group 2
Child Exploitation Awareness
Monday 11th May – The Lantern – 9.30 to 11.30 OR Thursday 9th July – Teams – 13.30 to 15.30
Aims to: Enhance knowledge and practice for those working with children at risk of exploitation.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the signs, indicators and trends of modern exploitation.
- Understand Shropshire’s exploitation profile.
- Explore the impact of ACEs, trauma, grooming and drug/alcohol use.
- Consider use of appropriate and effective language with working young people.
- Accessing, referring or signposting to the right services when help is needed.
Face to Face Cost: Group 1 £0 Group 2 £41.50
Online Cost: Group 1 £0 Group 2 £35
Agencies in Group 1 receive pre-funded places (so no cost)
Click here for further information and booking details
Child Exploitation Advanced
Tuesday 16th June – The Lantern - 14.00 to 16.00
Aims to: Enhance knowledge and practice for those working with children at risk of exploitation.
Learning objectives:
- Today is not designed as an entry-level exploitation training (see information in audience section below).
- Explore practical methods of offering support and engaging in meaningful interventions with young people.
- Explore how to complete high-quality CE risk assessments.
- Understand latest themes & trends with child exploitation (especially evolving use of technology).
- Refresh knowledge of statutory safeguarding duties and the law.
- Understanding triage outcomes and how thresholds are met.
- Identify when, why and where to signpost or where to get support.
Cost: Group 1 £31.00 Group 2 £41.50
Click here for further information and booking details
Child Sexual Abuse and the Child Sexual Abuse Pathway
Wednesday 1st July – The Lantern - 9.30 to 12.30
Course Aim: To provide a greater understanding of Child Sexual Abuse and the Pathway to follow in Shropshire Local Authority area.
Learning Outcomes:
- Have a greater understanding of Child Sexual Abuse
- Recognise signs and indicators of Child Sexual Abuse
- Gain an awareness of the National and Local statistics around Child Sexual Abuse
- Be introduced to the Child Sexual Abuse Pathway used in Shropshire and understand its purpose in guiding professionals
- Understand the importance of communicating concerns of Child Sexual Abuse and how to respond.
Cost: Group 1 £0 Group 2 £59
Agencies in Group 1 receive pre-funded places (so no cost)
Click here for further information and booking details
Coercive Control and Trauma Informed Practice
Friday 22nd May – Lantern – 9.30 to 13.30 OR Thursday 2nd July – The Guildhall – 9.30 to 13.30
Aims to: Increase your understanding around what coercive control is, the tactics that may be used by an abuser and how to adopt a trauma informed approach.
Learning outcomes: This training module will look at:-
- What is domestic abuse - recap
- What is coercive control
- What the legislation says
- The impacts on a person
- What is trauma and how it can impact a person
- How we can work in a trauma aware and informed way
- Support available to victims and perpetrators.
Cost: Group 1 £57 Group 2 £76.50
Click here for further information and to book a place on this training.
Domestic Abuse and the Impact on Children
Thursday 16th April – The Lantern – 9.30 to 13.30 OR Tuesday 23rd June – The Guildhall – 9.30 to 13.30
Aims to: Increase your knowledge around the impact of domestic abuse on children and young people living within the household and outline support available for families.
Learning outcomes: This training module will look at:
- What is domestic abuse - recap
- What the legislation says
- The impact on children
- What is trauma
- Signs and behaviours shown
- How to support children and young people living through this
- Support available for children, young people and families.
Cost: Group 1 £57 Group 2 £76.50
Click here for further information and booking details
Domestic Abuse Confident Intervention: tools to safely support domestic abuse victims
Friday 17th April – Guildhall – 9.30 to 13.30 OR Thursday 18th June – The Guildhall – 9.30 to 13.30
Aims to: Increase your confidence in assessing and understanding the risk to victims of domestic abuse who you are working with and in helping to get the correct support in place.
Learning outcomes: This training module will look at:-
- What is domestic abuse - recap
- What is a DASH risk assessment
- How can a DASH be used in your roles
- What is MARAC
- Support available to victims and perpetrators
- Attendees will take away practical tools on best practice to complete and understand risks of Domestic abuse.
This session is delivered along with lived experience and provides an interactive real-life scenario between worker and Domestic abuse victim.
Cost: Group 1 £57 Group 2 £76.50
Click here for further information and booking details
Domestic Abuse Beyond the Break-Up: the tactics and impact of post-separation abuse
Thursday 7th May – the Lantern – 9.30 to 13.30 OR Wednesday 1st July – the Guildhall – 9.30 to 13.30
Post‑separation abuse doesn’t end when the relationship does—in many cases, it escalates.
Aim of session: This training explores how perpetrators use ongoing coercive control, legal systems, child contact, financial pressure, and reputation attacks to maintain dominance long after a victim has left.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will learn to recognise the patterns, tactics, and warning signs of post‑separation abuse, understand its impact on adult and child survivors, and build confidence in responding safely and effectively.
Cost: Group 1 £57 Group 2 £76.50
Click here for further information and booking details
Introduction to Early Help & Thresholds
Tuesday 19th May – The Lantern – 12.30 to 16.30 OR Thursday 13th August – Teams – 10.00 to 12.00
Aims to: Give an overview of the Early Help system in Shropshire Local Authority area.
Learning outcomes: Attendees will gain understanding of:
- The Early Help system in Shropshire Local Authority area.
- The roles of different services and professionals within the system.
- Where to find information on Early Help services and referral pathways.
- Where to find information around Thresholds for different levels of need.
Cost: Group 1 £0 Group 2 £0
All agencies have pre-funded places (so no cost)
Click here for further information and booking details
Understanding and Working with Neglect in Children and Young People
Monday 8th June – The Lantern – 9.30 to 12.30 OR Thursday 16th July – The Lantern – 9.30 to 12.30
Course Aim: To enable front line practitioners and volunteers to recognise and respond to neglect in Shropshire.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the term ‘Neglect’ and how it impacts Children and Young People.
- Identify the signs and indicators as well as the different areas of Neglect.
- Consider factors which may lead to Neglect.
- Be aware of tools and pathways to aide in the finding and reporting of Neglect in Shropshire.
- Learn from Local Safeguarding Practice Reviews.
Cost: Group 1 £0 Group 2 £59
All agencies in Group 1 have pre-funded places (so no cost)
Click here for further information and booking details
Click here for information on our Group pricing structures
Any queries regarding any of the courses above please email joint.training@shropshire.gov.uk
Join the Joint Training mailing list
Sign up to the Joint Training mailing list to receive our regular newsletter, updates on upcoming courses and other important information. To do this, simply click on this link:- SIGN UP to Joint Training updates
Best Start in Life Parent Hub (formerly known as Childcare Choices)
Early Years Funding Code of Practice
Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework for Childminders
Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework for Group and School-Based Providers
Early Years Funding for Foster Children
CPD Early Years and Schools | Shropshire Learning Gateway
Early Years Advice and Funding (SEND)
Early Years CPD
Early Years Information Pages on the SLG
Funding Diary Dates (headcount windows and payments)
Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF)
Parent Declaration Form - 2025/26
Recruitment:
SEND and Inclusion Newsletter
Shropshire SEND Local Offer
Funding Claims, Free Entitlements, Eligibility Codes, Provider Portal etc.:
Admin Team: NEF@shropshire.gov.uk
Job Vacancies:
Admin Team: NEF@shropshire.gov.uk
Buildings, Premises, Accommodation, and any related issues including schools looking to adopt their local pre-school:
Andy Nicholls: andy.nicholls@shropshire.gov.uk
Wraparound Childcare Programme:
Dan Steele: Dan.steele@shropshire.gov.uk
School Sustainability Funding:
Jo Morris: Jo.morris@shropshire.gov.uk
Qualifications, Ratios, Staffing etc.:
Laurie Johnson: Laurie.Johnson@shropshire.gov.uk
Safeguarding and Child Protection:
Charlotte Percival: Charlotte.percival@shropshire.gov.uk
Early Years Inclusion Funding (EYI) - applications and admin:
Admin Team: NEF@shropshire.gov.uk
Applications for EYPP and 30-Hour Entitlements for Children who are Looked After:
Admin Team: NEF@shropshire.gov.uk
Applications for Disability Access Fund:
Admin Team: NEF@shropshire.gov.uk
Information, advice and guidance in relation to SEND children:
earlyyears@shropshire.gov.uk
Any other queries that don’t fall into the above:
earlyyears@shropshire.gov.uk
Remember – we also have the MS Teams site:
https://teams.microsoft.com/l/team/19%3a9e2862aae963406b9ffc01b034aae950%40thread.tacv2/conversations?groupId=dd786852-0af3-4592-b069-7cf66e48df55&tenantId=b6c13011-372d-438b-bc82-67e4c7966e89
If you are not already a member of this group, then please email nef@shropshire.gov.uk and we will get you access.
Alison Rae
School’s Improvement Commissioner Adviser Early Years Foundation Stage
Education Improvement Service
Tel: 01743 254467
Email: alison.rae@shropshire.gov.uk
Laurie Jones
Quality Improvement & Learning Co-ordinator
Education Improvement Service
Tel: 01743 250626
Email: Laurie.Johnson@shropshire.gov.uk
Charlotte Percival
Safeguarding Officer
Tel: 01743 254147
Email: charlotte.percival@shropshire.gov.uk
Dan Steele
Senior Development Officer (Early Years and Sufficiency)
Tel: 01743 253913
Email: dan.Steele@shropshire.gov.uk
Admin Team (funding queries):
Beth Parry-Jones, Brydie Porter, Lauren Goodhead & Sarah Jones
Email: NEF@shropshire.gov.uk
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