EYFS Update – November 2008

As a result, many Playwork qualifications are now included on the new Early Years and Playwork Qualifications Database which is accessible at www.cwdcouncil.org.uk. Whereas previously every playworker would have had to have acquired an Early Years qualification, the new criteria for the database opens the door to Playwork.  

The Department for Children, Schools and Families recognises the fact that playwork is not part of formal education, and that children in out of school play settings are learning through play which is delivered by playworkers who base their practices on the Playwork Principles.  Out of school play settings are not the main provider where children spend the largest part of their day, but playworkers are in a position to work with schools and other main providers in any way they deem appropriate to ensure continuity of provision for children.

Despite campaigning for exemption the current situation with Open Access facilities is that children 0-5 years (specifically birth to 31st August following the child’s fifth birthday) must be accompanied to and from and the setting must have EYFS status.  The alternative is to exclude this age group from the facility.  Information on registration on the Early Years Register can be found by visiting www.ofsted.gov.uk/publications/080017

Ofsted are currently inspecting all settings registered on the Early Years Register, which includes play provision which has children in the Early Years.

This is causing a great deal of confusion and stress with many providers as it is not clear how Ofsted inspectors will be judging play settings. Reports coming in from those who have been inspected reveal inconsistencies, as well as in some cases a lack of awareness of play and playwork.

SkillsActive are working with Play England on a briefing for play providers, which should be available in the next few weeks, and have been in touch with both Ofsted and the DCSF to try and agree on how play settings should be inspected.

In the meantime it is important that play providers do not compromise working to the Playwork Principles. If any play settings feel they have been unfairly assessed or have come across issues they feel need addressing, you can contact Chris Martin, National Policy Manager, (chris.martin@skillsactive.com) who is putting together issues to bring up with Ofsted. It is useful if you can provide specifics, including the name of the setting, inspector, date, and specific details of the issues.

CWDC has put together voluntary training for early years practitioners on the EYFS, which may also be useful for playworkers to take part in – go to www.cwdcouncil.org.uk for full details.

November 2008