For playwork, early education and childcare proFessionals in surrey

Way Ahead

www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead

Summer 2012

Free

02

Welcome to the summer issue of Way Ahead. We have a packed issue for you this term as we cover the many changes and events happening.

This issue our biggest ever cover story is looking at the revised Early Years Foundation Stage which is coming into effect from 1 September 2012. We have dedicated a full six pages to the topic as we know how important it is and we want to make sure you feel ready for the changes. This cover story has been written by several different people across Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service to make sure we’ve included all the key information you need to know now.

It’s not just the EYFS that’s changing, as this summer we’ve also had a restructure to our service. You can find out more about these changes on page 4 but rest assured that you, your setting and the children and families you work with remain our top priority.

And of course, London 2012 is happening over the next few weeks. And some of it is happening right here in Surrey with the cycle road races. Taking the 2012 Games as our inspiration we have discovered more about healthy eating from Jo Strover from Tootsies Private Day Nursery, we’ve spoken to Jane Siegle, a Community Travel Manager from Surrey County Council, about road safety, plus we’ve filled Webwatch with London 2012 related sites to give you ideas, information and activities.

Happy reading...

Contents

03 // news News&Webwatch

04 // feature SurreyEarlyYearsandChildcare

Serviceischanging

05 // london 2012 Stop,lookandreadon

06 // q&a Appraisals–whatamanager

needstoknow

08 // london 2012 Frompatchtoplate

10 // cover story TherevisedEarlyYears

FoundationStage

16 // feature Newchildmindingnetwork

18 // q&a StudentFinance

20 // dates Datesahead

Way Ahead Welcome

to

Our eco credentialsProduced by Production cost

Communications Team, Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service. For more information or to contact us:email: wayahead@surreycc.gov.ukweb: www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayaheadtel: 01372 833833

The paper used for Way Ahead is from sustainable forests grown for the production of paper and has the Forest Stewardship Council mark. The magazine is printed, using vegetable based inks, by an ISO 14001 accredited printer.

Each copy of Way Ahead costs around 60p to produce.

Way Ahead

Communications Team, Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service

Cover storyP10

// welcome / contents

03

www.surreycc.gov.uk/eycpractitioners Find out about our London 2012 inspired activities for your setting, including the Surrey Children’s Activity Passport and the Every Child a Talker communication decathlon and communication in your community events.

www.gosurrey.info Find out what’s happening in Surrey, how you can be part of it and how Surrey is benefiting from the London

2012 Games.

getset.london2012.com This website hosts the official London 2012 education programme. It has games, ideas and resources for children aged from three to 19 years old that are inspired by London 2012 and the Olympic and Paralympic values.

www.london2012.comThis is the official website for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It has information about the sporting events, ceremonies, the athletes and countries taking part and much more.

www.getaheadofthegames.comLondon 2012 will have an effect on roads and public transport so find out where the travel hotspots are and plan your journeys (it covers Surrey too).

WebwatchWith the 2012 Games just around the corner we’ve selected some of the best websites to help your setting get the most from these events.

Production cost

New ChildCare FiNderSurrey Family Information Service is offering free listings on their new online Childcare Finder directory. This new way of searching for childcare in Surrey is being promoted to all parents and carers as the quickest and easiest way to find out what is available. A lot of parents plan ahead so it is not just about immediate vacancies but also the options available to them in the future. Everyone who contacts Surrey Family Information Service will be directed to Childcare Finder in the first instance. Make sure

your setting is included on Childcare Finder by going to www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcarefinder If you want to add your setting please contact the Early Years Information and Research Team on 01372 833800 or email eyinforesearch@ surreycc.gov.uk

ChaNges to Free early eduCatioN For two year olds (Feet)FEET is a government initiative that currently funds childcare for a small number of two year old children who will benefit most from early access to childcare.

You may have heard that the government is extending FEET funding to the 20% most disadvantaged two year old children nationally from September 2013. In Surrey, this will mean that approximately 1,600 two year olds will be eligible to get a funded childcare place in an early years setting, this could be a nursery, pre-school or network childminder. We have been preparing for this and our first step was to increase the hourly rate from April 2012 from £4.85 to £6 for up to 10 hours a week, term time only, or up to seven hours

a week to be taken over 52 weeks a year.

FEET will also be matching its claims process with Early Years Free Entitlement from September 2012. You can download all of the documents you need to claim for funded two year old children from www.surreycc.gov.uk/eyfe

Newsnews / NewS & weBwAtcH //

03

Over the past few months we have been reviewing the way we work and we’ve been going through a complete restructure. This includes everything from our priorities, teams, job roles and titles to the services we offer and the way we work. But rest assured that we are as dedicated to supporting you, your setting and the children and families you work with as ever and you remain our top priority.

In fact, we think we’ll be even better placed to support you than ever before. These changes will allow us to become more flexible, efficient, cost effective and importantly, more targeted so we can offer help and tailored support where and when it’s needed most.

We will start working in this new structure from 1 July 2012. There will be a period of change while we establish this new way of working but we will try to make this as seamless and easy as possible for you and we appreciate your patience and understanding.

We’ve had to restructure the way we work as a service in response to significant budget cuts and a change to our statutory duties and priorities set by the coalition government. As a service we are continuing to offer training, quality assurance schemes, grants and funding, workforce development support and business development. And we are also introducing some new teams and roles, including a dedicated Playwork Advisory Team, Early Language Team, Early Support Team and a safeguarding children advisor.

By now your setting should have had the letter we sent you explaining the changes and introducing the new teams who’ll be working with and supporting you. If your setting hasn’t had this letter yet please email eycs.admin@surreycc.gov.uk

You can also find all the information online at www.surreycc.gov.uk/eycpractitioners

Although changes are happening, our service’s main contact details are staying the same.

T: 01372 833833E: eycs.admin@surreycc.gov.ukW: www.surreycc.gov.uk/eycpractitioners

Make sure you don’t miss out on important updates, information and training news by subscribing to Way Ahead e-bulletins. This is the main and often the only way we contact you and in many cases it is replacing letters and mail outs so please subscribe now at www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead

Keep in touch and up to date

is changing

Surrey Early Years& Childcare Service

// eYcS iS cHANgiNg / feature

04

With the Olympic cycling road races happening in Surrey this summer, why not encourage the children and young people in your setting to give cycling a go?

www.dft.gov.uk/bikeabilityCycling safety for schools and includes games and films.

www.surreycc.gov.uk/cyclingInformation on a range of topics and a handy leaflet about safe cycling.

Cycling safetyBasic road safety skills need to be introduced to pre–school children as early as possible to help their development. Working with the hands on approach of the Early Years Foundation Stage, our Waste and Sustainability Team have designed a road safety play box to help develop a child’s observation and awareness skills through a series of interactive play.

what’s iN the box?This resource is for three to four year olds and covers the important aspects of road safety. It has lesson plans, games and things to make plus it includes discussion points and practical activities around:• stop, look and listen• travelling on a bus• be safe be seen• safe places to cross a road.

outComesUsing the resources with the children in your setting will help them learn to:• hold their parents or

carers hand when outside• always stop when told• walk on the inside of

the pavement• stop at the kerb

before crossing• look and listen

before crossing.

loaN sChemeYou can borrow a road safety play box on a two-week basis so you can enjoy experiencing the different topics with the pre-school children in your setting. For more information email rebecca.harrison@surreycc.gov.uk

You can also download the lesson plans and activity sheets from www.surreycc.gov.uk (search for Road safety resource for pre-school children).

Jane Siegle, one of Surrey County Council’s Community Travel Managers, gives Way Ahead an insight into the road safety education resources available for three to four year olds from Surrey County Council and Drive SMART.

StoPlook& reAd oNis changing

Road safety online for children of all ages

www.trafficclub.co.ukThe Children’s Traffic Club website aims to provide a way to teach three and four year olds basic road safety skills.

talesoftheroad.direct.gov.uk Road and cycling safety website aimed at 6 to 11 year olds with games and activities plus a toolkit and resources.

www.dft.gov.uk/think/education/early-years-and-primary Road safety information and resources for practitioners, parents and children.

london 2012 / StoP, look & reAd oN //

What is an appraisal?An appraisal is an interactive method of assessing the role of individuals in your setting. It’s an opportunity to:• review strengths and weaknesses • take an overall assessment of work content and load • look back on what has been achieved • set goals and objectives for the following period.

Why do one?Appraisals have many benefits for staff and managers. They give you an opportunity to recognise staff achievements and to look at successful working practice. Supporting your staff and valuing their work means they perform better and strive to improve their working practices, resulting in better outcomes for the children they work with.

Having open discussions through an appraisal will help you to build relationships with your staff and will help make sure working environments are productive and that you take feedback from staff onboard.

Appraisals also form part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework (3.22).

How do I carry out an appraisal? To get the most out of an appraisal they need to be clearly thought out and well planned. Who is going to carry out the appraisal, have they got the relevant knowledge of the staff member’s day to day workings, have they had enough experience or training in carrying these out?

Struggling to know how to hold an appraisal, what to cover or why to even bother? Then read on as Sian Armstrong, a Recruitment Outreach Advisor for Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service, explains the what, why and when behind appraisals to help you get the best from them and from your staff

Appraisalswhat a manager needs to know

If you’ve got your own appraisal coming up and you want some advice then read the summer Way Ahead e-zine as Sian will be sharing her top tips. Subscribe to get Way Ahead e-bulletins and e-zines at www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead (the summer e-zine is out in early July so use the past issues archive function to find it).

Preparing for your own appraisal?

06

// APPrAiSAlS / q&a

Give the staff member plenty of notice of when the appraisal will be to make sure they have time to prepare. A good way to make sure the appraisal stays on track is to give out a template covering the discussion points the appraisal will cover and ask the staff member to record their ideas on this. You can find templates in the recruitment and retention section at www.surreycc.gov.uk/eycpractitioners

Make sure you set aside enough time for the appraisal and that you won’t be disturbed. This may mean arranging staff cover.

Make sure you discuss everything that you planned to in the appraisal and set and agree targets.

What should an appraisal cover?The following are some of the things that you should include in an appraisal: • training and career progression• discovering and discussing

potential• standards of work• basis for promotion• probation or development• self evaluation from the person

having the appraisal• feedback from both the person

having the appraisal and you.

Agreeing targets and an action planYou both need to agree on any targets set. To make sure targets are useful you can use the SMART system by making sure they are:• specific• measurable• achievable• relevant • time bound.

You’ll also need to draw up an action plan to outline how the staff member will achieve these targets and how often you will monitor their progress until the target is met. You can review targets throughout the year and not just at their next appraisal.

You should also link the staff member’s training and development plan to their appraisal to look at what further training they want or need. If you would like advice on developing staff training and development plans contact your workforce development advisor (if you’re not sure who this is call 01372 833833 or email eycs.admin@surreycc.gov.uk).

How often?Staff members should have an appraisal a minimum of once a year and have booked supervision on a regular basis in between appraisals. Supervision should be a much more

regular, planned opportunity for staff and management to meet to discuss any issues. The EYFS Framework (3.19) states that all staff that have contact with children and families must have supervision.

Confidentiality Everything that is discussed during an appraisal or supervision is confidential and you should record all discussions and both sign and keep a copy.

At the pre-school I work at we have an appraisal once a year. At my last appraisal I said I was ready for more responsibility and was given the role of special educational needs coordinator and also promoted to deputy manager. I will be going on the Inclusion and the Code of Practice training soon to help me in my new role. They are important, a great opportunity to express how you feel and if you have any problems

For more information about appraisals: • contact your local recruitment

and retention advisor (if you’re not sure who this is call 01372 833833 or email eycs.admin@surreycc.gov.uk)

• visit our recruitment and retention pages at www.surreycc.gov.uk/eycpractitioners or try www.buisnesslink.gov.uk

• book on to Staff appraisal training at www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcareworkshops (under leadership and management programme).

Find out more

Kelly Price, Deputy Manager at Jellybeans Playgroup in Merstham0707

q&a / APPrAiSAlS //

But, until recently, there were no clear, national guidelines to help you. The new national Voluntary Food and Drink Guidelines for Early Years Settings came out in January 2012 and you can download it from www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk but is it that easy to make it work in practice?

Way Ahead got some tips from Jo Strover, Area Manager of Tootsies Private Day Nursery in Farnham, who won a Nursery World Award for their food in September 2011.

Encouraging the children at your setting to eat well and making sure you are providing healthy, balanced and nutritious food and drink is a big part of running an early years setting.

From

Getting inspired by food

patchto plate

Serves six adults

ingredients

• 500gofcarrots

• 1whiteonion

• 3sticksofcelery

• 1cloveofgarlic

• 2freshoranges

• 600mloffresh

vegetablestock

• 300mlorangejuice

method1.Warmalittleoil

orbutterinapan.

2.Dicetheonion,crushthe

garlicandaddtothepan.

3.Choptheceleryandadd

tothepan,sweatoutfor

fiveminutes.

4.Peelandchopcarrots,add

tothepanandsweatout

forafurtherfiveminutes.

5.Zestandjuicethetwo

oranges,addtothepan

withthestock,simmer

for25minutesoruntil

thecarrotsarecooked.

6.Blendandserve.

Carrot and orange soup

Food should be fun!08

// From PAtcH to PlAte / london 2012

Can you give us an example of the food you serve at your nursery?Low sugar wholegrain cereals and fresh fruit for breakfast, lamb tagine with dates and sweet potatoes followed by apricot flapjacks for lunch and jacket potatoes with vegetable chilli con carnie for tea.

Have you always served this kind of food?Our menus developed when Chef Tris Strover joined the Tootsies Team in 2009. Tris is a big part of our success with food as he has extensive experience in the catering trade and is a father himself. He has used his skills to create a variety of dishes that suit a young child’s diet.

Why did you decide to focus on this area of your practice? Food is universal, and we felt it was a great way to involve all our families in the nursery. We believe that by supporting the families at our nursery to make healthy choices in their food and lifestyles when their children are young, this will have a lasting affect throughout their lives.

As well as changing your menus, how else do you make sure the children have a positive approach to food?We have vegetable plots in our garden and run practical cooking activities every week so the children understand where their food comes from and how to turn simple ingredients into a meal. We ask the children what they think as well and every week they create one of the day’s menus themselves using healthy options. We also make sure that meal times are happy, social occasions, where the children are encouraged to chat and serve themselves. Food should be fun!

How do you involve the parents?We invite all our parents to meet our chef at open days and give them the opportunity to take part in food tastings and a master class such as filleting a mackerel. They are also offered recipe booklets so they can continue the healthy eating at home.

What difference has it made?The children’s attitudes towards new foods are great and we have far less ‘fussy eaters’. It has also had a positive effect in the home too. Parents have told us that their children are keen to try new foods and often ask for specific recipes which we are happy to share.

How do you make sure your meals are healthy, balanced and nutritious? We make all our meals from scratch so that we know exactly what goes into them. We use information from the Caroline Walker Trust, Practical and Nutritional Guidelines (www.cwt.org.uk) and the new Voluntary Food and Drink Guidelines for Early Years Settings in England as well as keeping up to date with information from the Food Standards Agency (www.food.gov.uk).

How do you make your food suitable for everyone? We find out very early on if children joining the nursery have any special dietary requirements and keep a detailed list in the kitchen so Tris can use this to help plan menus and source the necessary ingredients. Wherever possible, the alternative we offer is very similar to the regular menu so that every child can experience the same food and flavours.

What is your most popular meal? One of the most favoured teas is soup, particularly the carrot and orange (see box for recipe). They are all made from scratch and served with homemade bread.

Encouraging the children at your setting to eat well and making sure you are providing healthy, balanced and nutritious food and drink is a big part of running an early years setting.

Food hygiene for catering training

Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service are offering Food hygiene for catering training to providers and practitioners so you can meet statutory welfare requirements. This online course matches the UK National Occupational Standards in Food Safety and Hygiene at level 2. Find out more at www.surreycc.gov.uk/childcareworkshops (under Support your practice induction programme).

Consulting children on the menu

Learning how to fillet a mackeral

london 2012 / From PAtcH to PlAte //

You can read or download the two revised documents, the Statutory Framework for the EYFS and the non-statutory Development Matters in the EYFS, from foundationyears.org.uk (hard copies are not available from the Department for Education).

These documents set the standards that all early years providers must meet to make sure that children learn and develop fully and are kept healthy and safe.

The EYFS (2008) will remain in place until 31 August 2012. The revised framework starts on 1 September 2012 and is mandatory for all early years providers. The Statutory Framework for the EYFS document (2012) is set out in three sections:

SECTioN1 The learning and development requirementsSECTioN2 AssessmentSECTioN3 The safeguarding and welfare requirements

as you know, the revised early years Foundation stage (eyFs) has been published and you’ve got just a few more weeks to get up to date with the changes before implementing it from september. to help with this, we’ve pulled out the key bits of information you need to know now whether you’re a provider or a practitioner.

Foundation Stage

Which settings must meet the revised EYFS requirements?

The following maintained, independent or registered early years providers must meet the EYFS (2012) requirements:• nursery and reception classes in

maintained and independent schools• day nurseries• registered childminders• playgroups/pre-schools• after school and breakfast clubs • holiday play schemes• Sure Start Children’s Centres.

The revised Early Years

10

// tHe reviSed eYFS / cover story

seCtioN 1 - the learNiNg aNd developmeNt requiremeNts These define what providers must do to promote the learning and development of all children in their care. The Development Matters in the EYFS document contain guidance to support practitioners in implementing the statutory EYFS requirements. This guidance will help practitioners to understand and support each individual child’s development pathway.

The characteristics of effective learning are an important and welcome focus within the revised EYFS. There are three characteristics of effective learning which providers and practitioners will need to take into account when supporting children to become motivated learners (see table on next page). These are explained in more detail in the Development Matters in the EYFS document. But don’t throw out everything from before as the EYFS Practice Guidance (2008) resources still has valuable information to support you too.

There will now be 17 Early Learning Goals. These define the level of progress children should have made by the end of the reception year. There are seven areas of learning and development in which practitioners must support children - three prime areas and four specific areas (see table on next page).

Providers must make sure that practitioners are fully aware of their obligations to successfully deliver the EYFS and meet children’s individual needs through planned purposeful play.

A quality learning experience for children requires a quality workforce. Providers should regularly consider the training and development needs of their practitioners to make sure they are able to offer a challenging and enjoyable experience so both children and staff reach their full potential.

Care offered before and after a school day, for example by an after school club or a childminder and provision exclusively in the school holidays should be guided by, but do not necessarily need to meet, all the learning and development requirements. Practitioners should talk to parents and carers about the support they intend to offer, and look to complement learning in settings where the child spends more time.

The ways in which the child engages with other people and their environment… underpin learning and development across all areas and support the child to remain an effective and motivated learnerDevelopment Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2012

Next page

cover story / tHe reviSed eYFS //

11

seCtioN 2 – assessmeNt

This outlines what types of assessment are needed and when. It states that “paperwork should be limited to that which is absolutely necessary to promote children’s successful learning and development”. This section also includes information on the progress check at age two and assessment at the end of the EYFS – the EYFS Profile. Both formative (on-going) and summative (summary) assessments will need to reflect on the different ways that children learn and are informed by the characteristics of effective learning.

seCtioN 3 - the saFeguardiNg aNd welFare requiremeNts

These set out the key elements that providers must follow to keep children safe and well (they were known before as welfare requirements).

Many of the welfare requirements have changed from “should have regard to” to “must”, making them legal requirements now.

Characteristics of Effective LearningPlaying and exploring – engagement

• Finding out and exploring• Playing with what they know• Being willing to ‘have a go’

Active learning – motivation

• Being involved and concentrating• Keeping trying• Enjoying achieving what they

set out to do

Creating and thinking critically – thinking

• Having their own ideas• Making links• Choosing ways to do things

Area of Learning andDevelopment

Aspect

Prime Areas

Personal, Social andEmotional Development

• Making relationships• Self-confidence and self-awareness• Managing feelings and behaviour

Physical Development • Moving and handling• Health and self-care

Communication and Language • Listening and attention• Understanding• Speaking

Specific areas

Literacy • Reading• Writing

Mathematics • Numbers• Shape, space and measure

Understanding the World • People and communities• The world• Technology

Expressive Arts and Design • Exploring and using media and materials

• Being imaginative

learNiNg aNd developmeNt requiremeNts

12

// tHe reviSed eYFS / cover story

headliNe ChaNges

Child protectionProviders safeguarding policies and procedures must cover the use of mobile phones and cameras in the setting.

Providers must have regard to the Government’s statutory guidance Working Together to Safeguard Children.

Providers must train all staff to understand their safeguarding policy and procedures and ensure that all staff has up to date knowledge of safeguarding issues.

Suitable people Providers are responsible for obtaining criminal records disclosures for managers, from September 2012 this will not be Ofsted’s responsibility.

Providers must tell staff that they are expected to disclose any convictions, cautions, court orders, reprimands and warnings which may affect their suitability to work with children (whether received before or during their employment at the setting).

Providers must also meet their responsibilities under the safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006.

Staff taking medication/other substancesProviders must ensure that those practitioners who are taking medication only work directly with children if medical advice confirms that the medication is unlikely to impair that staff member’s ability to look after children.

Staff medication on the premises must be securely stored, and out of reach of children.

Staff qualifications, training, support and skillsProviders must ensure that all staff receives induction training to help them understand their roles and responsibilities.

Providers must put appropriate arrangements in place for the supervision of staff who have contact with children and families.

Childminders must have completed a local authority approved training course which helps them understand and implement the EYFS before they can register with Ofsted.

Staff: child ratiosProviders must inform parents and /or carers about staff deployment and, when relevant and practical, aim to involve them in these decisions.

Children must usually be within sight and hearing of staff and always within sight or hearing.

Children may be left in the sole care of childminders’ assistants for two hours at most in a single day. Childminders must obtain parents and/or carers’ permission to leave children with an assistant, including for very short periods of time.

Independent schools – for children aged three or over. For classes where the majority of children will reach the age of five or older within the school year, there must be at least one member of staff for every 30 children.

Food and drinkThere must be an area which is adequately equipped to provide healthy meals, snacks and drinks for children as necessary.

There must be suitable facilities for the hygienic preparation of food for children, if necessary including suitable sterilisation equipment for babies’ food.

In group provision, all staff involved in preparing and handling food must receive training in food hygiene.

BehaviourA named practitioner should be responsible for behaviour management in every setting. They must have the necessary skills to advise other staff on behavioural issues and to access expert advice if necessary.

Providers, including childminders, must keep a record of any occasions where physical intervention is used, and parents and/or carers must be informed on the same day, or as soon as reasonably practicable.

Safety and suitability of premises, environment and equipmentProviders must keep premises and equipment clean, and be aware of, and comply with, requirements of health and safety legislation (including hygiene requirements).

Providers must have, and implement, a health and safety policy, and procedures, which cover identifying, reporting and dealing with accidents, hazards and faulty equipment.

Providers must ensure that fire exits are clearly identifiable, and fire doors must be free of obstruction and easily opened from the inside.

Who’s who?

The revised EYFS places different responsibilities and requirements on providers, practitioners and staff. Here’s a quick definition to explain who’s who.

Provider – an owner or manager (including voluntary management committees and governing bodies). Basically anybody who provides a registered childcare facility.

Practitioner – anyone who works directly with children.

Staff – anyone who doesn’t work directly with children but is employed by the provider (such as kitchen staff).

13Next page

cover story / tHe reviSed eYFS //

Risk assessmentProviders must have a clear and well-understood policy, and procedures, for assessing any risk to children’s safety, and review risk assessments regularly.

Providers must determine where it is helpful to make some written risk assessment in relation to specific issues, to inform staff, practice and demonstrate how they are managing risk if asked by parents and/or inspectors.

Providers must obtain written permission for children to take part in outings.

Providers must assess the risks or hazards which may arise for the children, and must identify the steps to be taken to remove, minimise and manage those risks and hazards. The assessment must include consideration of adult to child ratios. The risk assessment does not necessarily need to be in writing; this is for providers to judge.

Vehicles in which children are being transported, and the driver of those vehicles, must be adequately insured.

Equal opportunitiesProviders must have and implement a policy, and procedures, to promote equality of opportunity for children in their care, including support for children with special educational needs or disabilities.

Information and recordsProviders must enable a regular two-way flow of information with parents and/or carers, and between providers, if a child is attending more than one setting.

Providers must ensure that confidential information and records about staff and children must be held securely and only accessible and available to those who have a right or professional need to see them.

Providers must be aware of their responsibilities under the Data Protection Act (DPA) 1998 and where relevant the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Providers must ensure that all staff understand the need to protect the privacy of the children in their care as well the legal requirements that exist to ensure that information relating to the child is handled in a way that ensures confidentiality.

Parents and/or carers must be given access to all records about their child, provided that no relevant exemptions apply to their disclosure under The Data Protection Act 1998 (it is essential that all providers/staff in early years settings have an understanding of how data protection laws operate).

Providers must make certain information available to parents and/or carers. This includes how the EYFS is being delivered in the setting and how parents and/or carers can access more information (providers must refer to the EYFS statutory framework for more information on what providers must make available to parents).

Providers must make available to parents and/or carers details about how to contact Ofsted, if they believe the provider is not meeting the EYFS requirements. If providers become aware that they are to be inspected, they must notify parents and/or carers. After an inspection, providers must supply a copy of the report to parents and/or carers of children attending on a regular basis.

PremisesProviders must provide access to an outdoor play area or, if that is not possible, ensure that outdoor activities are planned and taken on a daily basis (unless circumstances make this inappropriate, for example unsafe weather conditions).

Provision must be made (space or partitioned area) for children who wish to relax, play quietly or sleep, equipped with appropriate furniture.

Sleeping children must be frequently checked.

Providers must ensure that children in a baby room have contact with older children and are moved into the older age group when appropriate.

Providers must ensure there is an adequate number of toilets and hand basins available (usually one toilet and one hand basin for every ten children over the age of two).

Providers must ensure there are suitable hygienic changing facilities for changing children who are in nappies.

Providers must ensure that there is an area where staff may talk to parents and/or carers confidentially, as well as an area in group settings for staff to take breaks away from areas being used by children.

Providers must have agreed procedures for checking the identity of visitors.

Providers must consider what additional measures are necessary when children stay overnight.

SmokingProviders must have a no smoking policy, and must prevent smoking in a room, or outside play area, when children are present or about to be present.

headliNe ChaNges CoNtiNued

MedicinesTraining must be provided for staff where the administration of medicine requires medical or technical knowledge.

Providers must keep a written record each time a medicine is administered to a child, and inform the child’s parents/carers on the same day, or as soon as reasonably practicable.

14

// tHe reviSed eYFS / cover story

This is not a complete list of all the changes. For support or guidance contact Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service, call 01372 833833 or email eycs.admin@surreycc.gov.uk

what does the revised eyFs meaN For your settiNg?

Your setting should:

• become familiar with the changes• review policies and procedures• keep up to date via websites, early years

magazines, recent publications, forums and the Way Ahead e-bulletins (subscribe at www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead)

• go on training• self evaluate• keep parents up to date regarding changes

(Parents’ Pages magazine has an article in their summer issue that might be useful)

• access support through Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service

• organise a staff meeting around changes and what they mean for your setting

• update documents and paperwork.

what is surrey early years aNd ChildCare serviCe doiNg ready For september 2012?

As a service we are:

• looking at and updating the EYFS record keeping and observation proformas to include the characteristics of effective learning (which are not obligatory)

• updating our training packages to reflect the revisions to the EYFS

• identifying and writing new training packages where needed

• making sure that the welfare audit is updated• providing information via our website (at www.surreycc.

gov.uk/eycpractitioners) and Way Ahead e-bulletin (subscribe as www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead)

• providing each setting with one printed copy of the EYFS revised statutory and Development Matters document

• continuing our update training on the revised EYFS into the autumn term.

Play is essential for children’s development, building their confidence as they learn to explore, to think about problems and relate to othersStatutory Framework for the EYFS 2012

NotiFyiNg oFsted oF ChaNges

All registered early years providers must notify Ofsted of any change: In the address of the premises.

To the premises which may affect the space available to children and the quality of childcare available to them.

In the name or address of the provider, or the provider’s other contact information.

To the person who is managing the early years provision.

In the persons aged 16 years or older living or working on childminding premises.

Where providers are required to notify Ofsted about a change of person, except for managers, providers must give Ofsted: The new person’s name.

Any former names or aliases.

Date of birth.

Home address.

If there is a change of manager, providers must notify Ofsted that: A new manager has been appointed. Where it is reasonably practicable to do so, notification must be made in advance. In other cases, notification must be made as soon as is reasonably practicable, but always within 14 days. A registered provider who, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with these requirements commits an offence.

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cover story / tHe reviSed eYFS //

a childminding network is a group of registered childminders who are quality assured and supported by home-based childcare advisors from surrey early years and Childcare service (eyCs). eyCs have run a network in surrey since 1999 but from september 2012 it is changing and more of you will be able to benefit from being a member. read on to find out how you can apply.

Introducing the new Surrey County Council Quality Assured Childminding Network...

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What’s changing?The childminding network run by EYCS has always used the National Childminding Association quality assurance model. From September, we will be using our own quality assurance scheme, the Surrey County Council Early Years Quality Improvement Award (QIA), which has already been recognised as raising the status of childminding.

What does this mean?It means that any registered childminder in Surrey who meets the membership criteria can be part of the new Surrey County Council Quality Assured Childminding Network. And there is no limit to the amount of people that can join.

What is the membership criteria?To join the Surrey Childminding Network, you need to: • have received a good or

outstanding grade on your last Ofsted inspection

• hold, be working towards or have a commitment to complete, a level 3 qualification or above in childcare

• take part in the QIA.

You do not need to have been working as a childminder for a minimum amount of time and there is no age limit.

Why should I want to join the network? It is free to become a member of the Surrey Childminding Network and as a network childminder you will: • get support from a home-based

childcare advisor throughout your membership

• have the opportunity to go on QIA training

• have access to network resources• get a certificate of membership

in recognition of the quality of your provision

• be able to claim the Early Years Free Entitlement (EYFE) for three and four year olds and be on the providers list to claim the Free Early Education for Two Year Olds (FEET)

• be entitled to a free consultation with a business advisor who can offer advice and information on claiming the EYFE.

What are the benefits of claiming the EYFE?Only childminders who are a member of the Surrey Childminding Network can claim EYFE. And being able to offer the free entitlement can mean that parents decide to keep their children with you for longer rather than moving them to a nursery when they turn three. It can also bring in new business as you can offer choice to parents.

Why do I have to take part in the QIA to be a network childminder?As the Ofsted Annual Report 2009-2010 said, “Providers who are part of a quality assurance scheme are more likely to be judged good or outstanding. This is particularly the case for childminders.” Being part of a quality assurance scheme also increases the status of childminding in the eyes of parents and will provide you with an opportunity to develop areas of your childminding service.

What does taking part in the QIA involve? Will I get any support?The QIA has five modules that are matched to the five Every Child Matters outcomes. Within each module are brief, open-ended questions that help you reflect on all aspects of how you deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and focus on areas that need developing. A home-based childcare advisor will be your mentor and support you through the process. If you are currently studying for a level 3 or above qualification in childcare you can complete that before starting the QIA. You will not be expected to do both at the same time.

Do I have to complete the QIA within a certain period of time?No, most people take around two years to complete the award but you can do the QIA at your own pace.

What happens if my Ofsted grade falls below good while I am a member of the Surrey Childminding Network?If your Ofsted grading should fall below the joining criteria, you will be given a package of support from your home-based childcare advisor that will include identifying what areas you need to improve and supporting you to make those changes.

Is there any opportunity for further development?Yes, as a member of the network, you can use your expertise and knowledge to support newly registered childminders. You will be paid for this service. There is also the opportunity to support childminders who take part in national initiatives such as the Every Child a Talker programme.

How do I apply?You can apply online at www.surreycc.gov.uk/childmindingnetworks Once we get your application, we will send you an EYFS audit tool to complete which will help us identify your starting point on the QIA. We will also tell you which home-based childcare advisor will be your mentor.

How can I find out more?You can go online and check out our new webpage on the Surrey County Council website at www.surreycc.gov.uk/childmindingnetworks or call 01372 833833 and ask to speak to a home-based childcare advisor.

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feature / New cHildmiNdiNg Network //

Q&Awith AN

exPert

get the facts about applying for a student loan from expert Charmaine Valente.

Charmaine is a student Finance Consultant from the student loans Company where she’s worked for more than three years. plus she’s worked as a student Financial adviser within a university and has a

background in banking and recruitment so she really knows her stuff. here she talks

to Way Ahead and answers our questions.

What is Student Finance England?Student Finance England is part of the Student Loans Company. The Student Loans Company is the body set up by Government to make sure that students throughout the UK get the funding they need for their studies. Student Finance England assesses, processes and pays tuition fees, maintenance loans and grants for students studying in England.

How long before my course begins will I need to apply for student finance?The deadline has passed for this year, but Student Finance England encourages you to apply soon so that you will get your money as soon as possible after you start university.

How can I apply for student finance? You can apply online at www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance

Students who apply for university through UCAS are asked if they would like to register for student finance. If they tick ‘yes’ then we will either email or text them to encourage them to apply for funding.

Can I still apply for student finance if I get other benefits?Yes, you can apply for student finance, however Job Centre+ will take some or all of the finance into account when working out your entitlement to benefits, depending on which finance you are awarded.

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// cHArmAiNe vAleNte / q&a

Apply soon so that you get your money as soon as possible after you start university

Can I apply for student finance on top of the workforce development fund (from Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service)?Yes, if you are deemed as an eligible student for student finance, for example you meet residency requirements and the course you are studying meets the criteria, you can accept other grants.

Is student finance means-tested?Students starting university in 2012/13, taking an eligible course, qualify for 65% of the maximum maintenance loan, regardless of their income. The other 35% is means-tested. Tuition fee loans are for the full amount of the tuition fee for the course and are not dependant upon income.

How is my loan paid?Your maintenance loan and/or grant are paid into your bank once you have registered at university. Your tuition fee loan is paid directly to your university from Student Finance England.

When do I have to start paying back my loan?You don’t start to repay the loan until you earn more that £21,000. If, for example, you are earning £25,000 you pay back £30 a month. If you earn £30,000 you pay back £67.50 a month.

Will I have to pay interest on my loan, if so how much?Yes, you will need to pay interest but how much depends on your circumstances. • For those starting university in

2012, interest will be charged at RPI (Retail Price Index) plus 3% until the end of the course.

• For those early leavers (before 2015), interest will be charged at RPI only from April after leaving until April 2016.

• For those starting to repay in 2016, interest on income less than £21,000 will be charged at RPI only, above £21,000 to less than £41,000, interest will be applied on a scale from RPI to RPI plus 3%, and interest on income above £41,000 will be applied at RPI plus 3%.

Is there a time limit on when I have to pay my loan back?No – and any outstanding debts will be written off after 30 years.

What happens if I withdraw from my course?My advice would be to make an appointment to see the financial adviser at your university to discuss your options and the process you will need to follow.

Will having a student loan affect my mortgage application?The amount of net income will determine the size of mortgage a graduate can get. Under the new arrangements, starting in 2012, borrowers will have more net income at their disposal because of the increase in the repayment threshold.

What are Student Finance’s contact details?The Student Finance England helpline number is 0845 300 5090. We are open weekdays from 8am-8pm and at weekends from 9am- 5.30pm. We also answer student queries on our Facebook page, follow us at www.facebook.com/sfengland and on Twitter at twitter.com/sf_england

Where else can I get information?From the student financial adviser at your university or www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance which also refers you to other types of funding such as NHS. For information about funding for 2012/13 you can also visit www.thestudentroom.co.uk/

studentfinance

What student finance can I get?• Tuition fee loans cover the costs of your

tuition fees. • Maintenance loans help with your living

costs throughout the academic year. • Maintenance grants help with your living

costs throughout the academic year. You do not need to repay this (unless you leave your course early).

Find out more about these at www.thestudentroom.co.uk/studentfinance

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q&a / cHArmAiNe vAleNte //

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Dates Ahead We’ve rounded up the key

dates that you need to know about in the

months ahead.

Way AheadTo send us your story ideas, comments or feedback email wayahead@surreycc.gov.uk

Check out the magazine online at www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead

If you’re a playwork, early education or childcare practitioner in Surrey subscribe to our Way Ahead e-bulletin for weekly news, reminders and training updates at www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead

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For playwork, early education and childcare proFessionals in surrey

Way Ahead

www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead

Summer 2012

Free

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19-23 November – is Anti-Bullying Week 2012. See how your setting can get involved at www.antibullyingalliance.org.uk

1 August – is National Playday and this year’s campaign is Get out and play! www.playday.org.uk 12 August – is the last day of the London 2012 Games. 29 August – the Paralympic Games start today and run until 12 September, find out more at www.london2012.com/paralympics

1 September – the revised Early Years Foundation Stage comes into effect today. Make sure you’re up to date with the changes by reading our feature on page 10.

22-28 October – is National Parents Week and the theme is Family friendly ... what’s the story? Register for access to resources and more information at www.parentsweek.org.uk

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Please note: There’ll be no winter issue of Way Ahead this year so make sure you subscribe to get Way Ahead e-bulletins at www.surreycc.gov.uk/wayahead to keep up to date.