There is much evidence in mainland Europe that the later age of starting school is not detrimental to standards and outcomes. In fact, children's achievements and wellbeing are enhanced. In England in the Early Years Foundation Stage we are looking at a document which covers birth to five years. While we support the aim to provide continuity we are still very concerned about the experiences offered to children in Key Stage One. Much work has been carried out looking at transition, but has often focused on the transition process rather than getting to the heart of the style of learning and teaching.
We need to consider the years from birth to seven as a distinct and important stage in children's lives. This was much more evident when I trained as a teacher. The age range covered in my training was three to seven, and we were able to work in partnership with nursery nurses whose training covered the same range and extended from birth.
At present, we urgently need highly qualified practitioners in the birth to seven years age range who have knowledge of child development and are able to meet children's learning needs through enjoyable experiences where they will achieve and thrive. We are concerned that some of our young children merely survive and do not thrive.
Anne Nelson, director, Early Education
