QUALIFIED MATTERS
I was saddened by Della Grizzell's response to the debate about qualifications (Letters, 12 February).
The EPPE research by Dr Kathy Sylva clearly draws a correlation between the level of staff qualifications and the effectiveness of the provision. I have seen and worked with very poor early years provision which has mainly been down to the lack of knowledge and understanding of what is appropriate for young children delivered by unqualified but experienced staff.
This is by no means in any disrespect for people who choose to work with children, are committed to this work but are happy to contribute in their own way. I believe there is a place for these individuals, as they bring something different to a setting. However, many unqualified staff have unrealistic expectations placed on them to take a role as a keyperson, undertake observations which can be a real challenge if you have never experienced this before, evaluate these and then plan the children's learning.
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