Call for targeted EYFS training

The government asked for feedback on the implementation of the framework from a range of early years organisations. In its response, members of the National Day Nursery Association (NDNA) said that training for implementing the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) was thin on the ground in many areas and lacked depth.

Nursery managers also highlighted self-evaluation and observation as areas they need more help with. Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of NDNA, said: "Nursery managers could only access broad training on the actual framework, and a 'one person per setting' policy adopted by a number of local authorities also caused issues."

A spokeswoman for the National Childminding Association, which also provided feedback, said its members shared these concerns: "While the majority of childminders feel the self-evaluation forms are helpful, they require more ongoing support to get the most out of the process."

Out-of-school clubs have called for more focus on their settings as they attempt to embrace the EYFS and still cater for older children too.

A spokeswoman for the Department for Children, Schools and Families said: "The government is determined to ensure there are enough suitably trained people in the workforce. We have made more than £740m available to local authorities for training and support through the Sure Start Grant and Graduate Leader Fund, funding that can be applied locally to address the specific needs of the workforce."

- See Interview, p13.