Welcome to the FSF September newsletter.

Here we are in the month that manages to mark both the end of the summer and the beginning of something new – even if we work in settings that continue all year round somehow that September-y feeling is there as part of the rhythm of the year.

This September there is a newly reformed EYFS and new guidance documents in the form of Development Matters and Birth to 5 Matters. Earlier in the month, Ben from our education team ran a live webinar about the new EYFS and Tapestry. He spoke about the approaches of the 2021 Framework, so even if you aren’t a Tapestry user, you may want to check out the recording to inform your thinking as you navigate your way through the new documents.

Early Years funding was debated in Westminster Hall earlier this week. The APPG for Childcare and Early Education continues to voice concerns over funding for the sector. Over 112,000 people have signed a parliamentary e-petition calling for an independent review of childcare and affordability. 

The government has written a Contingency Plan for early years settings and schools, containing suggested measures to improve COVID safety. CO2 monitors are part of the DfE’s measures, and you can read a light-hearted reflection on what this could look like in a classroom or setting in our Coffee Break section on the FSF.

New things and change can be challenging. Remember the Forum is a place where you can ask questions and offer advice.

Here on the FSF we have an article by Helen Edwards about making observations, one by Varinder Kaur Johal about writing in the early years, and a piece by Kirstie Page on speech, language and communication development in KS1.

We have recorded podcast conversations with the editor of EYE, Angelica Celinska, and with Varinder Kaur Johal who spoke about working with SLT to create a deeper understanding of Early Years. Ben and Jack from our education team curated a ‘combocast’ of previous guests on the theme of CPD. You can find them all wherever you listen to your podcasts, and here. If you enjoy listening, please do rate and review the podcast, and subscribe so you know when the next episode has been released.

Over at Tapestry HQ there is a new Flags feature, which allows you to organise your observations and reflections. You can find out more here. 

Happy September,

From Helen, Steve and all of us at the FSF and Tapestry.