Using EYFS Baseline Data to improve outcomes
As half term approaches I’m sure everyone has been busy settling in their new intake and of course completing the baseline assessments. Schools tend to want the baseline completed as soon as possible before any new learning takes place.
EYFS Baseline Assessment
Whatever baseline system you use of course the most important thing is to ensure the children are all settling in happily and enjoying the introduction to their school learning journey. Children need to feel confident and have strong sense of well-being for any learning to be able to take place.
It’s important that baseline assessments are accurate and robust and provide a true measure of children’s on entry knowledge. This will then indicate which children need extra support in any of the learning areas. It will also show the needs of any of the vulnerable groups and provide a basis for next steps and planning.
Learning and Progress in the EYFS
After spending so much time on baseline it is important that all the EYFS team has a firm understanding of the baseline information and uses this knowledge to benefit the learning and progress for the children. This information provides initial gap analysis and also individual children’s strengths and interests.
Moderating EYFS Baseline
It’s a good idea to moderate the baseline data internally within your school to ensure there is consistency among classes. Remember all seven areas of learning are equally important and need to be planned for accordingly.
Planning and Interventions
Once this has all been done you can then use the baseline information in many ways. How you plan your learning environments will be greatly influenced by your baseline results. Interventions will also be planned from the baseline data. It is important to also take note of learners who are progressing quickly and ensure that appropriate learning activities are also being planned for any more able learners.
So there is certainly a lot to think about and many ways you can make good use of your baseline data and information. For further help on ways of incorporating your baseline results into everyday great practice please contact me. I can provide help and support on ways of using your Baseline to ensure progress for all children in your class.