Working together to strengthen inclusion and compliance

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. This reflects the growing national emphasis on inclusive practice and ensuring that all children can access high-quality early education and care, in line with Department for Education statutory guidance and the evolving expectations within the new Ofsted inspection framework.

To support this work, we will shortly be issuing two self-audit tools for all providers to complete.

One audit will focus on compliance, while the second will focus on Ordinarily Available Inclusive Provision. We ask that providers complete these audits honestly and reflectively, as they are intended to support professional discussion and identify both strengths and areas for development within your setting.

Following completion of the audits, our support visits will adopt a more focused approach. During visits, Early Years Sufficiency and Welfare Advisers (EYSWAs) will discuss and review the compliance audit, while Early Years Quality and Inclusion Partners (EYQIPs) will focus on the OAIP audit and inclusive practice within your setting. These discussions will help us to build a shared understanding of expectations and identify any support that may be required.

We recognise that completing additional audits and engaging in focused discussions places further demands on already busy providers. However, this work is a key part of ensuring that we collectively strengthen both inclusion and compliance across the sector, helping us to meet statutory responsibilities and deliver the best possible outcomes for children and families.

We greatly appreciate your engagement and commitment as we work together to embed these priorities across Devon’s early years provision. Further information, including the audit tools and guidance on completion, will be shared shortly. We thank you in advance for your cooperation and for your ongoing dedication to providing high-quality, inclusive early years education and care.