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The Foundations of Learning. Edited by Julie Fisher. (Open University Press, 14.99, 01280 823388)

Reviewed by Marian Whitehead, language and early years consultant

This book sets out to unpack the unpopular 'foundations' metaphor about early learning and thereby help educators to think more deeply about young children's education.

On a daily basis we use, or are subjected to, many metaphors: some are helpful (Foundation Stage) and some are damaging (forcing up standards; delivering the curriculum). This book offers an educative exploration, by an architect and distinguished educators, of some established engineering principles for constructing strong foundations for buildings. As in the traditional 'Going to St Ives' rhyme, there are seven engineering facts for seven early years experts to investigate. These facts translate into seven chapters covering breadth and depth in the Foundation Stage; high levels of achievement; the impact of stress; the needs of disadvantaged children; meaningful connections in early learning; assessing what matters in the early years; and the consequences of inadequate investment.