Standard 6 'Understand the contribution that other professionals within the setting and beyond can make to children's physical and emotional well-being, development and learning'
Standard 6 sits within the 'Knowledge and Understanding' section of the EYP national standards. This section contains six standards which outline how EYPs must demonstrate through their practice, that they have a secure knowledge and understanding of child development. This includes illustrating that they understand the principles and content of the Early Years Foundation Stage, the statutory frameworks for children's services, and national policies and strategies.
Beyond the setting
EYPs may work in a wide range of settings, including full day-care, nursery and primary schools, playgroups, out-of-school settings and children's centres, as well as in home-based childcare, creches and family support units. Wherever they work, EYPs will encounter other professionals who support children and families. Some may work closely with other professionals in their own setting; others may work with professionals who visit their setting regularly or from time to time, or they may work with professionals outside the setting or home.
Professional roles
To meet this standard, candidates must demonstrate that they recognise the roles of those professionals who commonly support children from birth to five, and the contribution that each can make to children's physical and emotional well-being, development and learning. These include educational psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, health visitors, special educational needs co-ordinators, family support workers, social workers and portage workers.
Candidates' own practice and leadership of others will be informed by knowledge of the ways in which they and their staff can contribute to and support the work of others.
Collaborative working
Their knowledge might be demonstrated through taking an active part in multi-professional planning and review, or by co-ordinating and implementing agreed programmes and interventions for the children in their care on a day-to-day basis. It might be demonstrated through making clear to colleagues the policies and procedures for involving other professionals, or by explaining to colleagues and/or concerned parents or carers where sources of help and support might be found.
Standard 6 is essential for Early Years Professionals to lead practice and support colleagues in becoming part of a world- class integrated children's workforce.
