![The EYFS profile results are the first to be published since the pandemic, PHOTO Adobe Stock](/media/knunr2qh/reception-class.jpg?width=1002&height=668&bgcolor=White&v=1da6134c9ae06b0)
Published by the Department for Education today (24 November), the results for 2021-22 show that 49.1 per cent of children eligible for free school meals achieved a good level of development under the EYFS, compared to 68.8 per cent of those not eligible for the benefit – a difference of 19.6 percentage points.
The figures are drawn from teacher assessments of children’s development at the end of the EYFS – the summer term of Reception year. Children are judged against 17 early learning goals (ELGs) across seven areas of learning.
Action for Children said that the statistics reveal a ‘stark and alarming gap in school readiness between disadvantaged five-year-olds and their peers.’
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here