Early Years Practitioner

Overview

The aim of this qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to 7 years of age with applied knowledge in the early years, 0-5 years. Upon successful completion of this qualification learners can enter the workforce as a qualified Level 2 Early Years Practitioner, or if progression requirements are met continue to study for a Level 3 Diploma holding Early Years Educator status.

Behaviours

Behaviours are the mindset, attitudes and approaches required to learn new knowledge and apply new skills. There should be many opportunities in the workplace for you to develop the anticipated behaviours that are required as an Early Years Practitioner. Remember, you will be judged on your behaviours at end-point-assessment (EPA). Review the following behaviours and start to work on developing and showcasing these at every opportunity.

These are the behaviours expected of all Early Years Practitioners carrying out their role:

B1: Care and compassion – provide the very best childcare to every child every day combined with the ability to identify opportunities for development.

B2: Honesty, trust and integrity – develop trust by working in a confidential, ethical and empathetic manner with a common sense and professional attitude.

B3: Positive work ethic – maintains professional standards within the work environment providing a positive role model for children.

B4: Being team-focused – work effectively with colleagues and other professionals.

B5: Commitment – to improving the outcomes for children through inspiration and child centred care and education.

B6: Work in a non- discriminatory way – by being aware of differences and ensuring all children have equal access to opportunities to learn, develop and reach their potential. Work in ways which consider fundamental British values including democracy, the rule of the law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

B7: Professional Practice – be a reflective practitioner with a commitment to continued professional development adhering to legislation, policy and procedure with a positive disposition to work.

Nursery World Breaking News

Nursery World provides an invaluable mix of the latest news, research and opinion plus best practice and management advice from the top experts in the sector. It is essential reading for managers and practitioners involved in delivering early years education and childcare across the private, voluntary and public sectors. Read some of the top articles this month:

• Child poverty rising in key worker families – study
• A fifth of practitioners 'don't invite children to contribute to their own learning' – survey
• Welcome Nurseries sold in management buyout
• Not just 'breadwinners' – young fathers seek more time with children, says study
• Best Practice Network chosen to deliver new Level 3 SENco training

Your Role & Safeguarding

Everyone who works with children needs to understand how to recognise the signs and symptoms that could indicate a child is being abused, but also how to respond and make child protection referrals.

The government guidance Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) and What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused (2015) provides a national framework for all agencies working with children to join in partnership to safeguard our children effectively. In addition to the Keeping children safe in education 2021 (publishing.service.gov.uk) Do not forget KCSiE 2022 will come into force on the 1st September 2022, how have you and your setting prepared for the changes?

All childcare providers need to consider this guidance and implement robust safeguarding policies and procedures for their setting, which outline how to respond to and record concerns about children and vulnerable adults.

For further support and guidance on your role in Safeguarding in the Early Years, visit Safeguarding in the early years | early years alliance (eyalliance.org.uk) and What are the safeguarding procedures in early years? | Online DBS Checks