Opinion

Exclusive: Ofsted responds to the Big Conversation

Sue Gregory, Ofsted Early Years Director, explains the rationale of the new framework and gives a point-by-point response to the sector's Big Conversation demands

The job of teaching very young children day in, day out is profoundly important. Parents are their child's first 'teachers', and early years providers share this crucial role.

The very best providers tap into young children's natural curiosity; they show children how to do things and 'model' their expectations for children's behaviour. They provide structures and routines that help to improve a child's vocabulary, cognitive and social skills, particularly when they are not able to gain them at home. I congratulate them for their professionalism and dedication and know that, like Ofsted, they are determined that no obstacle should get in the way of making sure children are protected and helped to reach their full potential.

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