Bold Beginnings – What it really means to be bold in Reception!

Like everyone in the Early Years field I was both alarmed and dismayed when I first read the Ofsted ‘Bold Beginnings’ report. 

It has caused a lot of misconceptions and concerns for Early Years Practitioners and Head teachers alike.  The one good thing is that it has enabled teaching in Reception and appropriate developmentally practices to be brought back into the spotlight and discussed.

Play in the EYFS

We all know how important it is to provide purposeful learning through play opportunities.  This is the key way in which young children not only learn but also practice and rehearse skills, take on other roles, learn about talk and conversations and become part as a group.  The report sadly does not mention play but concentrates on more formal learning techniques. 

Characteristics of Effective Learning

Before children can learn phonics, writing, reading or maths they must have a purposeful learning environment to engage in.  Young children need to be encouraged to find out and explore, have their own ideas and learn how to be involved and concentrate.  They need to be given plenty of time and space to develop physically, cognitively and emotionally and this does not happen when children are sitting at a table.

Broad and Balanced Curriculum

In the Early Years we look at developing the whole child.  Children need to be given creative opportunities that will help them to develop across all areas of learning.  Children learn much more when they are up and moving and using their senses.  It is vital we provide learning opportunities and environments that enable them to do this.

Wellbeing

Young children must feel valued and safe in their learning.  It is important they are taught how to take safe risks and develop their creative and critical thinking abilities.  They must be allowed time to enjoy where they are and not always have the pressure of getting ready for the next stage in their learning.

The ‘Bold’ Future

Since the launch of ‘Bold Beginnings’ I have been contacted by many teachers and Head teachers concerned or worried that the EYFS provision they are providing is no longer right.  This is therefore a time to for us all to be ‘bold’ together and ensure we provide an EYFS provision with a learning through play and development pedagogy.

Need some help?

If you have any concerns about your provision or pedagogy please get in touch.  I can help with many different ways to provide an enabling environment and rich learning opportunities which will encourage each child to reach their full potential.  I am passionate about ensuring all young children develop a love and zest for learning that they will carry with them as they grow.