This section complements the professional development opportunities promoted by the Herefordshire Early Years Improvement Team through local training, briefings and networking events.

The Department for Education (DfE) funds a range of continuing professional development (CPD) training and support for early years educators and leaders. Available both online and in person, these programmes support practitioners to develop their knowledge, skills and leadership in ways that fit their role, setting and availability.

Online learning offers flexible access to training, while stronger practice hubs provide opportunities for collaboration, peer support and professional networking through virtual and face-to-face engagement.

DfE-funded programmes and guidance

• Early years continuing professional development and support guidance - An overview of the national training and support programmes available to the early years sector
• Maths Champions - Targeted professional development to strengthen early mathematics teaching, learning and leadership
• Early years child development training - Evidence-based training designed to develop understanding of child development and support high-quality interactions
• Stronger practice hubs - Regional networks offering professional development, practical resources and opportunities to collaborate with other early years professionals

Additional sources of online support

A wide range of high-quality online resources and guidance is available to support early years settings, practitioners and families in promoting children's learning, development and wellbeing. These resources provide practical advice, research-informed approaches, curriculum support and information to help improve outcomes for children.

Useful online resources

• Help for early years providers - Government guidance, resources and practical support to help providers deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) - Evidence-based guidance, research reviews and practical resources to support effective early years practice
• Foundation Years - Information, resources and guidance for professionals and parents covering child development, learning and family support
• National Children's Bureau (NCB) - Resources, training and best practice guidance to support inclusive early years provision and children's outcomes
• ERIC – The Children's Bowel and Bladder Charity - Advice and resources for practitioners and families to support children's toileting, continence and self-care skills

Statutory and non-statutory guidance

A range of statutory and non-statutory guidance is available to support early years providers in delivering high-quality education and care, meeting legal requirements, and promoting positive outcomes for children.

• Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework - The mandatory standards that all early years providers and schools must follow for the learning, development and care of children from birth to age 5
• Development Matters - Non-statutory curriculum guidance that supports practitioners in implementing the EYFS through responsive, child-centred practice and effective teaching approaches
• Progress check at age 2 - Guidance to support practitioners in completing the statutory progress check, helping to identify children's strengths and any areas where additional support may be needed

School-based support

Early years approaches continue to play a vital role throughout Reception. The Reception Improvement Offer provides targeted support for schools to strengthen teaching, learning and leadership, helping to ensure high-quality early education and a successful transition from the Early Years Foundation Stage into Key Stage 1.

• Reception improvement offer - Provides access to online and in-person professional development, networking opportunities and school support focused on improving outcomes in Reception classes. Support may include curriculum development, effective pedagogy, leadership coaching, classroom practice and transition arrangements.

This offer complements the wider professional development opportunities promoted by the Herefordshire Early Years Improvement Team, helping practitioners, leaders and schools to build strong foundations for children's learning, development and future success.