The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets standards for learning, development and care of children from birth to five years.

All Ofsted registered early years providers are required to follow the EYFS framework. This includes:

• Childminders
• Pre-schools
• Nurseries
• Out of school care providers
• School reception classes

Statutory guidance

• Statutory guidance: Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework
• Statutory framework for childminders (EYFS)

Non-statutory guidance

• Development matters: non-statutory curriculum guidance for the early years foundation stage
• Birth to five matters: Non-statutory guidance for the early years foundation stage

Guidance for parents and practitioners

The guide What to expect in the Early Years Foundation Stage, has been written for parents to help them understand how early years providers promote children's learning and development.

This resource is useful to:

• Share with parents during registration
• Support those who are new to early years

Professional development and training

The Department for Education (DfE) provides free guidance and training for early years practitioners to support their understanding of the EYFS and their responsibilities within it.

These resources include:

• Help for early years providers
• Online guidance
• Training materials
• Supporting videos (useful for practitioner induction)

Further resources

The Foundation Years website provides

• Latest news
• Policy updates
• Practical resources for early years professionals

It's a valuable tool to stay informed and up to date.

Contact and support

For further help, support and advice regarding the EYFS or early years issues, contact the early years improvement team at earlyyears@herefordshire.gov.uk or complete a Request for setting support from the early years advisers form