News

Degree of experience

Children's Workforce Development Council chief executive Jane Haywood (News, 13 April) implies that graduates in childhood studies will not have practical experience in childcare and will therefore need to 'top off' with Early Years Professional (EYP) status. I am about to finish my foundation degree (level 5) and then start a degree top off in early childhood studies. I also work part time in childcare and have more than 1O years of experience working with children.
Children's Workforce Development Council chief executive Jane Haywood (News, 13 April) implies that graduates in childhood studies will not have practical experience in childcare and will therefore need to 'top off' with Early Years Professional (EYP) status.

I am about to finish my foundation degree (level 5) and then start a degree top off in early childhood studies. I also work part time in childcare and have more than 1O years of experience working with children.

Ms Haywood is quoted as saying that if you are an early childhood studies graduate you 'probably haven't got the practical experience'. But what about mature students who have the experience and are working towards a degree?

The news story says candidates without a degree or relevant qualification but with two years' experience would also have the chance to become an EYP.

I am concerned that two years' experience is not the same as a degree or even a foundation degree. It is not enough time to be granted this status.

Would it mean I could complete an NVQ3, work for a couple of years in a day nursery and then get EYP status?

This is a great opportunity for those serious about their work in childcare to get recognition but if it is going to be given out like candy to all with two years' experience I would still prefer to obtain a degree.

Then I presume the old arguments about pay and becoming a teacher via being an EYP professional will crop up.

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