Month: October 2026

As part of our continued commitment to supporting high-quality early years provision across Devon, there will be an increased focus throughout the remainder of this academic year on Ordinarily Available Inclusive Provision (OAIP) and compliance with statutory requirements. We will shortly be issuing two self-audit tools for all providers to complete.

Don’t forget to make use of our weekly, locality-based virtual Inclusion drop-in consultations. These sessions offer a solution-focused opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns relating to an individual child’s development, or to explore aspects of SEND practice and provision within your setting. We are pleased to introduce monthly evening inclusion drop-in consultations specifically for childminders in each locality.

Two day Portage workshop running on 9 and 10 February 2027 in Exeter. Suitable for: Early Years Inclusion Practitioners, Early Years Practitioners, SENCOs, Parents/Carers, Family Hub staff, Foundation Stage Practitioners.

School age childcare network meetings are running in October for anyone working with school-aged children outside school hours and during the holidays. Book now!

Please view the latest training events and webinars from the Early Years South West Stronger Practice Hub.

The Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) is a 12-month programme that enables trainees to work towards Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) alongside their existing role, applying their learning directly within their setting. The next cohort starts 14 October.

View the latest jobs in early years and childcare, including school age childcare roles.