New Ofsted publications this week

The third and final subject-based research review focused on early years education has been published. Best start in life part 3 focusses on the specific areas and it considers which principles of curriculum design and delivery ensure that all children, including disadvantaged children and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), learn what they need to succeed in life.

Also published ‘Strong Foundations in the first year of school’ a report that focuses on the aspects of the Reception and key stage 1 curriculum that, Ofsted evidence suggests, make the biggest difference to children learning what they need by the end of key stage 1. To supplement this evidence, His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI) visited 20 schools to explore the findings of these publications in more detail and to examine the specific implications for the Reception Year, and Years 1 and 2. The report draws clear conclusions and gives recommendations, but it is for schools to decide whether and how to use the findings.