Gareth Conyard, Director of Education at Teacher Development Trust speaks about the importance of the new qualification available for the sector.
Just over a decade ago I was lucky enough to work with Professor Cathy Nutbrown on her review of early years qualifications. As a civil servant at the time in the Department for Education, I was able to work alongside her as she toured the country, speaking to early years practitioners from across the profession. I could not help but be inspired by the dedication, creativity and care being shown when visiting those working with babies and young children – in nurseries, schools, and as childminders. As Professor Nutbrown stated back in 2012, “quality is the key to a positive impact on children, and staff with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding are a crucial element of that quality.”
Recent evidence supports that statement. The continuing ‘Study of Early Education and Development’ shows how quality early education and childcare supports better outcomes for babies and young children, both at the time and as they progress through school – all the way to GCSE – with especially positive outcomes for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Specifically, this study shows the clear link between more qualified staff and better outcomes.
