The Early Years is a distinct stage which stretches from conception, through pregnancy and birth to 5 years. The earliest foundations for lifelong learning are set out in the first years of a child's life. A child's well-being, resilience and learning are affected by the quality of care, love, support and stimulation that they receive during these first years. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is a framework that sets standards for the learning, development and care of your child from birth to 5 years old.
All schools and Ofsted-registered early years providers must follow the EYFS, including childminders, pre-schools, nurseries, Children's Centres and all school nursery and reception classes.
A dedicated team of Early Years Advisers work in close partnership with all early years providers, alongside partners in the Learning Improvement Service, schools, the Early Years sector and Health. The team comprises the Strategic Service Lead, three Area Team Managers, Early Years Advisers/Area SENCOs, Early Years and Childcare Advisers, together with a Project Officer, Finance Officers and a Business Adviser.
Our vision for Early Years in Cumbria is 'Big Change Really Does Start Small' to highlight why this is such an important period in a child's life:
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The early years represents one of the best investments we can make for the long-term health, well-being and happiness of our society Centre for Early Childhood
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Early childhood experiences literally build brains Nancy Stewart
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What happens early in life has an impact later in life and it should be the most exciting time of their lives, full of curiosity, awe, exploration and laughter Early Years Team Member
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The successes individuals achieve during their adult life can be predicted by the level of cognitive and non-cognitive skills they possess on their first day of school Frank Field
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When you work with a child in the early years, you have the opportunity to help change the whole direction of their lives Early Years Nursery Manager
Useful links
Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework - GOV.UK