January 2024

January 2024

   

Welcome to our January Newsletter

EYFS Revisions and Qualifications Uncertainty – don’t get left behind


Two new versions of the EYFS Statutory Framework came into effect on 4th January 2024 – one for childminders and one for group and school-based providers.


The main changes apply to group-based providers and include:

  • A change from “must” to “may” concerning “take reasonable steps to provide opportunities for children to develop and use their home language in play and learning, supporting their language development at home.”

  • Removing the requirement for staff to have a level 2 maths qualification alongside a full and relevant Level 3 qualification to count in ratios (NB Level 2 English will still be required). Setting managers employed on or after 4 January 2024 must hold a level 2 maths qualification, or they must achieve one within 2 years of starting in the position.

  • The flexibility for “Suitable students on long-term placements and volunteers (aged 17 or over) and staff working as apprentices in early education (aged 16 or over) may be included in the ratios at the level below their level of study if the provider is satisfied that they are competent and responsible.”

Important update from the DfE


The DfE has clarified that unqualified staff in early years can maintain their regular work in early years settings. This clarification comes in response to confusion within the sector regarding the new qualifications guidance document “Early years qualification requirements and standards” 


Download the new, revised EYFS Statutory Framework for Group and School-based providers to find out more! 

     

New year, new support tools


2024 is a good year to be a Parenta customer! In addition to all the software enhancements we’ve made in the past year to help you with the smooth running of your setting, early next year, we will be adding improved funding support, a new, easy-to-use payment system for you and your parents, and much more. Watch this space!

 

Your December improvements:

Portal

  • A new way to raise support tickets has been added.
  • Email audit log: A new 'Invalid Email Address' status has been added to capture email addresses that are in an incorrect format.
  • The ‘Open’ email status has been removed from the audit log, as due to the way different email providers work, this may display incorrectly.

Full details can be found here

Abacus

  • Review and move multiple left children in just a few clicks.

Follow the step-by-step guide here

     

The Impact of Effective Planning in Early Years Education


As early years educators, we discover early on that all elements of planning are fundamental for children’s holistic development. Both long-term and short-term plans guide us while integrating the EYFS curriculum into our planning gives a structured learning approach. In-the-moment planning, play-based strategies, and outdoor activities all enrich the children’s educational experience but without effective, vital time management and organisational skills none of this is possible.

Join us for a practical webinar with seasoned experts Denise Burke, Sam Mackey and Sarah Seymour and delve into effective planning strategies for early childhood education.


Don't forget, anyone who signs up and attends the live webinar will receive a FREE CPD certificate!

Did you miss any of our webinars in 2023? Why not subscribe to our YouTube channel and you can watch all our industry webinars free of charge!

     

Parenta has gone VIRAL on TikTok!


We have officially gone viral on TikTok! Have you checked out our recent content? You definitely don't want to miss it! Our entertaining and engaging videos put the spotlight on the latest happenings in the early years industry, offering a lighthearted perspective on our beloved field. Find us on TikTok at @parenta_ and see our videos for yourself!

     

Find out how we can help you with your business – Parenta has the solutions!

   

Have staff that need to achieve their qualifications? Parenta is the largest training provider in the UK, enrolling over 2,000 learners a year! Whatever the level, we will have a course. View our courses here.

   

Have a vacancy in your setting? Take advantage of our FREE recruitment serviceWe have quality candidates that are ready to start! Keep your ratios at 100%.

   

Building Ofsted compliant websites for childcare settings. With one of our websites, you'll be well on your way towards achieving an 'Ofsted Outstanding'!

   

Parenta Magazine


Don’t miss our FREE monthly magazine, packed with early years news, advice, and guidance!

   
   
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