Early Years is becoming increasingly complex.
Children are arriving in Reception with less secure language, reduced independence and, in many cases, greater social and emotional need. At the same time, expectations have not diminished; if anything, they have become sharper. Schools are therefore working within a genuine tension: how to secure a rich, ambitious and play-based curriculum while also responding effectively to increasing need in behaviour, communication and inclusion.
Alongside this, the national direction is evolving. There is a growing emphasis on early language, self-regulation and school readiness, alongside increasing expectations around inclusion and support for neurodiverse learners. This is accompanied by a renewed focus on the quality of adult interaction, the design of learning environments and the consistency of practice within and across settings.
The Primary EYFS Network & Forum combines:
- A clear focus on readiness, regulation, language and inclusion within Early Years
- A purposeful professional network across schools, supported by research-informed insight (including York St John University)
- A disciplined cycle of data, pupil experience and classroom practice
- Practical development of approaches that strengthen provision, improve consistency and support all children
The intention is to strengthen practice, improve consistency, and ensure that Early Years provision genuinely meets the needs of the children now entering our schools.
There will be a structured sequence of sessions across the year, focused on three key areas:
- Understanding readiness, regulation and language development
- Developing high-quality provision, adult interaction and inclusive practice
- Securing consistency, effective systems and successful transition into Year 1
Each stage of the work will draw on research, classroom practice and pupil experience, with a consistent rhythm of review, collaboration and refinement. Particular emphasis will be placed on the quality of adult interaction, the design of provision and the early identification of need, ensuring that support is both timely and effective.
Primary EYFS Forum Key Content and Dates
| Meeting | Focus | Key Content | Purpose |
| Meeting 1 Thursday 1st October 2026 Full Day (In Person) |
Readiness, Regulation and Early Language | Introduction to the EYFS Network and annual priorities. Analysis of EYFS baseline information, including on-entry assessment, language development, PSED and attendance. Research input on readiness, regulation and early development. School spotlight on effective settling routines and regulation. | To establish shared priorities, develop a common understanding of readiness and regulation, and identify key areas for improvement across settings. |
| Meeting 2 Thursday 26th November 2026 Full Day (In Person) |
Provision, Adult Interaction and Inclusion | Review of early indicators, including behaviour, engagement and routines. Exploration of high-quality provision, adult interaction, classroom environments and inclusive practice. School spotlight showcasing effective EYFS provision and adult-child interactions. Sharing of provision models, routines and practical strategies. | To develop a shared understanding of effective provision and adult practice that supports learning, inclusion and strong developmental outcomes. |
| Meeting 3 Thursday 25th February 2027
Full Day (In Person) |
Consistency, SEND and Transition Planning | Review of interim EYFS data and progress in language, regulation and learning behaviours. Training and discussion on consistency, SEND provision and preparing children for transition. School spotlight demonstrating effective practice across classrooms and teams. | To strengthen consistency across settings, improve support for children with SEND and ensure high-quality provision for all learners. |
| Meeting 4 Thursday 27th May 2027 Full Day (In Person) |
Strategic Review | Review of cohort data, SEND provision and intervention strategies. Focus on early identification, inclusion and supporting children with emerging or complex needs. School spotlight demonstrating effective SEND practice within EYFS. Sharing targeted support approaches and case studies. | To improve inclusion, strengthen intervention strategies and ensure children receive timely support to maximise progress and engagement. |
| Meeting 5
Thursday 8th July 2027 (to be confirmed) Full Day 9am-3.30pm (In Person) |
Readiness for Year 1 | = Review of successful practice, provision and intervention strategies. School spotlight on effective transition arrangements. Development and agreement of a shared EYFS framework and resource bank. | To evaluate impact, identify effective practice and establish a sustainable EYFS framework that supports strong outcomes and successful transition into Key Stage 1. |