STORY
A new report from Ofsted underscores the critical role that experienced and qualified early years practitioners play in the development of babies and toddlers. The study reveals that staff with higher qualifications and more experience possess a deeper understanding of child development, leading to more effective care and education for children under two years old. The report, titled Getting it right from the start: how early years practitioners work with babies and toddlers, highlights the importance of the ‘key person’ role in early years settings. This role fosters strong attachments between practitioners and children, providing a stable foundation for learning and emotional growth. Additionally, the study found that most practitioners value positive relationships with parents, recognising their significance in supporting children’s development.
However, the research also identified areas needing improvement. While communication, language, and personal, social, and emotional development are well-understood, there is a gap in practitioners’ knowledge regarding physical development. Furthermore, some practitioners underestimate the capacity of babies and toddlers to learn, mistakenly believing they are too young for structured education. The report also notes challenges in utilising routine times for high-quality interactions, especially in mixed-age groups.
Jayne Coward, Ofsted’s Deputy Director of Early Years Regulatory Policy and Practice, emphasised the importance of early education:
“We know that a child’s first few years are crucial to their future learning and development. By providing children with an excellent start in those first two years, we can ensure that they gain the foundation they need to thrive throughout school and beyond.”
The report recommends targeted professional development for early years practitioners, focusing on the specific needs of babies and toddlers. This approach aims to enhance practitioners’ qualifications and experience, ensuring high-quality early education as the government expands childcare access.