Learning Improvement Service - Early Years Foundation Stage : Cumbria County Council

The Early Years Foundation Stage is a distinct phase which covers children aged 0 – 5 years. The foundation years are vital for young children ensuring their future well-being and social, emotional, physical and educational development. High quality early years provision is essential, bringing benefits for young children which will impact on their achievements throughout life.

A dedicated Early Years team of advisers, led by a senior adviser, works in close partnership with maintained nursery and primary schools, academies, childminders, children’s centres, private, voluntary and independent organisations. Our team is made up of a Senior Adviser, 3 District Team Managers, 12 Early Years Adviser/Inclusion officers (qualified teachers), 6 Childcare Advisers, 3 Childminder Advisers, 3 Specialist Advisory Teachers and 1 Project Officer.

Our team works closely with our partners, which includes parents to ensure the highest possible provision and outcomes for our children in line with the Early Years Outcomes Duty:

‘Every child should be supported to fulfil their potential according to their efforts and abilities. Their experiences in the early years have a major impact on later life...

...raising standards and quality of early childhood services will improve the five ECM outcomes of each child and reduce inequalities between them’

The Early Years Foundation Stage is currently undergoing a period of review to ensure outcomes for children aged 5 years are as good as they can be. In 2011 50% of children reached expected levels of attainment compared to the national average of 59%.

Learning Improvement Service - Early Years Foundation Stage

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