Vocabulary development is a cornerstone of early years education. A child’s ability to understand and use words shapes how they access the curriculum, communicate ideas, and build new knowledge. This post explains why vocabulary is central to founda...

Cumulative learning is central to Ofsted’s expectations for early years education. Inspectors look closely at whether children’s learning builds systematically over time, rather than being delivered as isolated activities. This post explains what cu...

Fluency is often discussed in relation to reading and maths, but its importance goes far beyond individual subjects. In early years education, fluency plays a critical role in securing foundational knowledge and enabling children to progress confide...

Understanding the difference between foundational knowledge and skills is crucial for building a strong early years curriculum. Many schools focus heavily on skills or activity-based learning but neglect the knowledge that underpins lasting learning...

Foundational knowledge and secure curriculum foundations are at the heart of Ofsted’s expectations for early years education. This post explains what inspectors look for, why it matters, and how schools can strengthen these key aspects of learning. ...

Foundational knowledge in the first years of school is crucial. Ofsted’s 2024 report, Strong Foundations in the First Years of School, highlights how children who leave Key Stage 1 with strong literacy, numeracy, and social skills are better prepare...

The July 2025 RSHE statutory guidance brings major updates for primary schools in England. This summary helps school leaders and PSHE leads understand what’s changed, what’s mandatory, and how to prepare. 1. Mandated Coverage - With Professional Jud...

As the autumn term approaches, two national reviews are gathering momentum - and while outcomes aren’t final, what’s known so far gives school leaders meaningful insight:DfE’s Curriculum & Assessment ReviewOfsted’s consultation on a new inspecti...

Your first term as an ECT can be both daunting and exciting. As you start your teaching career, balancing the demands of lesson planning, classroom management, and professional development can be challenging. To help you navigate your first term and...

Literacy is a cornerstone of education, enabling students to access the broader curriculum and succeed in their studies. The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) has outlined seven key recommendations in their guidance report to help educators impro...

Reading fluency is a critical component of literacy that often gets overshadowed by the emphasis on comprehension and vocabulary. However, fluency is the bridge between recognising words and understanding them in context. When students are fluent re...