Early years weekly bulletin
A weekly roundup of information that may be of interest to you and help you in your role in your early years setting.
Weekly Bulletins
Early Years Quality Improvement Team's Weekly Bulletin
3 September 2026
Keep in touch
Email: earlyyearscentre@lancashire.gov.uk
Telephone: 01772 539058
Web site: Early years support and training - Lancashire County Council
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LancsEarlyYears/ and http://www.facebook.com/groups/lancsearlyyears/
Complete this form to advertise your job vacancies for free: Recruiting and managing staff - Lancashire County Council
Your sector representatives
Please contact your PVI representatives on the Early Years Consultative Group, Rafael Schiel rafael@giantleapchildcare.co.uk or Sharon Fenton sharon@risingstarslancaster.co.uk if you have any comments or questions that you would like them to take forward to the County Council on your behalf.
Are you a new manager at your nursery setting?
Congratulations on your new role! Please let us know by completing this quick form: New PVI Nursery Manager
This will ensure that the member of the team supporting your setting knows who you are and can support you.
Welcome
The weekly bulletin will continue to bring you the latest updates, news and information from the Early Years sector and Lancashire County.
Alongside this, the 'something to do this week' section will take you through weekly, bite-sized aspects of your responsibilities under the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework. By undertaking weekly reflection on your practice, at the end of the academic year, this will help you to strengthen your knowledge and understanding and feel confident that you are meeting the statutory requirements while continually supporting high-quality outcomes for children.
You will also have received an email informing you about the new district teams to strengthen how we support you to improve outcomes for children in Lancashire. We look forward to working with you in the new academic year and will be in touch to introduce you to the new team for your area and your individual named team member who will support you this year.
New website
Lancashire County Council are currently changing our website so you may have noticed that your saved links to our webpage and other teams you work with no longer work.
Please visit us at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/early-years/early-years support-and-training/ and save the new link. You will find everything is still there waiting for you. We apologise for the inconvenience.
Early Education Funding - www.lancashire.gov.uk/early-years/early education-funding/
SEND Information for Professionals - www.lancashire.gov.uk/professionals/supporting-children-and-families/send information-for-professionals/
Children Looked After Guidance for Early Years Settings - www.lancashire.gov.uk/early-years/children-looked-after-guidance-for-early years-settings/
Something to do this week...
Preventing choking and keeping children safe whilst eating
Did you know?
Choking remains one of the leading causes of accidental death in young children. While food is the most common choking hazard, small object can also pose significant risk. Understanding how to prevent choking and how to respond quickly is an essential part of keeping children safe.
Why are young children more at risk?
Young children are still developing their skills needed to eat safely:
Chewing and swallowing skills continue to develop until around 4 to 5 years of age
Young children can become distracted, excited, or want to move around while eating
Their airways are much smaller than those of adults, making it easier for food to become lodged
Gagging is a normal part of learning to eat but choking is different and is often silent, making close supervision essential
EYFS Statutory framework safer eating requirements:
Children are always within sight and hearing of an adult
Appropriate seating is used and distractions are kept to a minimum
Adults position themselves so they can clearly see children face on while they eat
A paediatric first aider is present
Any allergies, intolerances, dietary requirements, preferences, or medical needs are known and shared with staff
A designated person checks that food provided is suitable for each child
Food if prepared and presented in ways that minimise choking risks
Parents are supported throughout the weaning process, with children progressing at their own pace
Any choking incidents are recorded, reviewed for patterns and shared with parents
Reflect on your practice:
Does your practice cover all the bullet points above?
Ask yourself - What would I do if a child started choking?
A quick refresher on how to deal with an incident of choking will ensure that you remain confident and prepared.
Useful resources:
The Early Years Foundation Stage Nutritional Guidance has information on preventing choking
Food safety - Help for early years providers - GOV.UK (education.gov.uk) includes important messages around the preparation of foods and links to useful resources regarding keeping children safe whilst eating.
The Food Standards Agency have created a useful poster to display where food is prepared and served to children Choking hazards poster
Dates for your diary ...
Best start in life district conference:
These brand-new district conferences will be held annually. These are live virtual meetings that are for all early years settings working in each specific district. This includes childminders, PVI nurseries, maintained and section 27 nurseries and reception classes. These sessions will provide you with important information from the Children, Family and Wellbeing Service and the Education Improvement Service.
Please see your 'Digital Early Years Leadership Quality Improvement Toolkit' for more details and dates to add to your diary.
Live virtual termly update meetings
PVI and Section 27 members Wednesday 23rd September 9.30 -11.30 am Childminder members Thursday 24th September 7 – 8.30 pm
Manager's time to talk termly cluster meetings
Face-to-face meetings: For further dates and to book your place, please see: Manager's time to talk - Lancashire County Council
Not a member yet? Click the link to join: Membership and other support services - Lancashire County Council
September training
Our face-to-face and live virtual training programme for the September 2026 is live on our web site, containing a range of professional development opportunities to support and enhance your practice.
We also have a range of instant access training and e-learning courses so you can learn at a time that suits you. Don't forget that group settings can also request in house training sessions.
Find out more: Training and information for all early years settings
Every Baby matters Webinar Series
The Every Baby Matters Webinar Series has been designed to build on key themes and provides an opportunity to explore topics in greater depth, learn from expert speakers and consider how as childcare practitioners we can continue improving outcomes for babies, children and families.
Sessions are free and for an hour duration over lunchtime. They are suitable for professionals supporting young people and families across health, social care, education, early years, policing, community and voluntary sector organisations, and partner agencies.
For further information and to register, please visit: Lancashire Safeguarding Partnership Training
Growing Together, Lancashire and Beyond
Early Years Stronger Practice Hub
Are you passionate about improving outcomes for young children?
The Lancashire and beyond early years stronger practice hub are looking for experienced and inspiring early years professionals to join the team as Early Years Stronger Practice Advisers, supporting group-based or childminder providers across our region. These are flexible, associate roles.
Location: Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness (travel required)
Closing Date: Friday 18th September, 9.00am
Working with the Stronger Practice Hub, you will:
Support early years settings to improve practice through coaching, mentoring and professional dialogue.
Deliver evidence-informed training and learning walks.
Share effective practice and help build strong professional networks.
Work collaboratively with local authorities and partner organisations to improve outcomes for children.
They're looking for someone who:
Has significant experience in early years provision.
Has an excellent understanding of the EYFS.
Is passionate about high-quality, evidence-informed practice.
Has experience of supporting, coaching or leading others.
Has excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Why join?
This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference to early years practice across the region while working with a supportive, forward-thinking team committed to improving outcomes for every child.
How to apply
You are invited to submit an expression of interest, using the form attached, outlining your relevant skills and experience.
Please submit your expression of interest form to the Growing Together, Lancashire and Beyond Early Years Stronger Practice Hub at – growingtogetherEYSPH@dukestreet-nur.lancs.sch.uk
For more information contact Sue Conron: head@dukestreetnur.lancs.sch.uk
Together, inspiring practice and improving outcomes for every child.
New safeguarding resources from the DfE
DfE have published new safeguarding guidance for early years providers to help practitioners, managers and childminders understand and apply the safeguarding and welfare requirements of the EYFS.
The new content provides practical information and advice on creating a strong safeguarding culture, recognising concerns early, responding appropriately, and ensuring children are safe, healthy and supported to thrive.
The guidance includes information on:
the safeguarding responsibilities of early years providers and practitioners
the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
creating and maintaining a strong safeguarding culture
recognising signs of possible abuse, neglect and harm
raising, recording and reporting safeguarding concerns
whistleblowing procedures and when to use them
safer recruitment and vetting requirements
working in partnership with parents and carers to keep children safe
staff training, supervision and ongoing safeguarding practice
attendance, absence monitoring and information sharing
resources, posters and links to further guidance and support
By using this guidance and supporting resources, you can strengthen safeguarding practice in your setting, support staff confidence and help ensure every child grows up in a safe, nurturing and protective environment.
New - DfE and NSPCC early years safeguarding training
The Department for Education has launched an online early years safeguarding training package, developed in collaboration with the NSPCC. This training covers sections 1 and 2 of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework’s safeguarding training annex, which all early years educators must be trained in line with every two years. The training is free to access for all early years educators including childminders and reception staff.
A link to the training can be found on the landing page of the EYFS
Section 3, the training for DSLs, from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework’s safeguarding training annex is provided by the local authority and can be booked on here. Please note, there is a cost to attend this training.
Lancashire Safeguarding Partnership Newsletter
Lancashire Safeguarding is a multi-agency partnership established to ensure safeguarding measures are met, vulnerable children and adults across Lancashire are protected from harm & abuse ….
Read the full newsletter here: August 2026 - Lancashire Safeguarding Partnership Newsletter
Updated EYFS Statutory Framework
The Department for Education has published the updated EYFS Statutory Frameworks for both childminders and group and school-based providers, which come into effect from 1 September 2026.
This includes clarification of existing expectations as well as a strengthening of safeguarding requirements. Do take time to consider the changes, and update policies and practice if needed. If you work with others, do ensure that all staff understand the changes.
Changes include:
Safer Sleep - the safer sleep requirements are now included in the Statutory Framework reflecting the importance of safer sleep practices in reducing the risk of sudden infant death.
Banned Dog Breeds - new paragraph regarding banned dog breeds being kept on the premises or visiting the setting (including nannies and voluntary registered early years providers).
Screen Use – specific guidance on children’s screen use in early years settings has been included (Help for early years providers: Screen use.).
Notifications to Ofsted - you must now notify allegations of harm, rather than serious harm, involving anyone living, working or caring for children on the premises. This change reinforces the importance of early reporting and transparency.
Safer Recruitment - has been strengthened again, requiring:
Enhanced DBS checks for all volunteers, including those who are supervised.
New employees must not begin work before their enhanced criminal record check has been received.
Staff Suitability - further details of what staff are required to disclose which may affect their suitability to work with children.
Domestic Premises - for group settings operating on domestic premises there is now a requirement to notify Ofsted (or a Childminder Agency) of changes to anyone aged 16 years or over living or working at the premises. This is to brings it into line with existing childminder requirements.
Early Years Qualifications Requirements and Standards - The Early Years Qualifications Requirements and Standards document has also been updated from 1 September 2026, to clarify the Level 2 English requirements.
These changes will be included in Live Virtual Members Update Meetings and you will receive a copy of the brand new EYFS safeguarding and welfare requirements audit.
Wednesday 23rd September from 9.30 to 11.30am
Thursday 24th September from 7 to 8.30pm
Updated early years operating guide, toolkit and inspection information
From 1 September 2026, Ofsted Inspectors will be using the updated early years operating guide, toolkit and inspection information when inspecting early years settings.
Key changes include:
providers must meet the grading standards as well as the relevant EYFS requirements to be graded at the ‘expected standard’
detail on safer sleeping arrangements and safer eating practices
clarity on inspecting when there are no early years children on roll or present
inspectors will speak to SENCo and other relevant leaders with inclusion roles
information about children with personal education plans
You can find out more about the changes here change note and blog post. They have also updated the Early years inspections: frequently asked questions blog post.
Have your say: Early Years Funding Consultation
Just under two weeks remain to respond to the Department for Education’s Early Years Funding Consultation:
Changes to the funding system for early years entitlements - GOV.UK
The consultation outlines the government's vision for a reformed early years funding system, alongside proposals to support the transition to the new arrangements in 2027– 28.
The proposals aim to maximise the impact of entitlements funding to:
improve access to early years education and childcare for families on low incomes
strengthen support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in the early years
increase efficiency and simplify the way funding is allocated, helping funding to work more effectively for children, families and providers
See the accompanying summary of proposals document, which provides an overview of the consultation proposals and the existing funding system: Early years funding consultation: summary of proposals. We strongly encourage and value responses to inform policymaking. The consultation closes on 14 September.
Department for Education and Ofsted vodcast on safer sleep in early years settings
The Department for Education and Ofsted have recently published a joint vodcast on safer sleep in early years settings. This includes an overview of the updated wording in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and then a Q&A with Ofsted colleagues on what this means for inspections.
SEND Roadshow
It's the beginning of a new school term and our SEND Roadshows are a great way to find out more about the support and services available for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The roadshows are for families and professionals. They aim to help you access information, advice, and support in one place, making it easier to find the support you need.
They are part of the SEND local offer. The local offer brings together information about services in Lancashire for people aged 0 to 25 with SEND, and their families. If you're a parent, carer, young person or someone who works with children and families, come along and join us.
These events are a chance to:
Meet local services and organisations
Find out what help and support is available
Ask questions and get advice
Meet other people from your area
To find out when the SEND roadshow is coming to a Family Hub near your setting, please click on this link: Lancashire SEND roadshows - Lancashire County Council
Home learning environment for children with SEND
Early years practitioners and Best Start Family Hub staff can discover more about the Best Start in Life strategy, and the role of Best Start Family Hubs and early years practitioners in supporting the home learning environment for families with children with SEND in a series of free webinars this autumn.
Follow the links below to book a place:
22nd September 7 to 9pm: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-special-approach-to making-it-real-to-support-families-and-practitioners-tickets-1991759455147
1st October 12:30 to 2.30pm www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-special-approach to-making-it-real-to-support-families-and-practitioners-tickets 1991760129163
13th November 9:30 to 11:30am www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-special approach-to-making-it-real-to-support-families-and-practitioners-tickets 1991760293655
Heads up Health Protection Bulletin
Click HERE for the latest 'Heads up Health Protection Bulletin'
Supporting toilet independence before school
You may have seen previous updates on getting children out of nappies between 18 and 30 months.
The Best Start in Life campaign on toilet training helps families prepare their children for starting school. This includes Toilet Training Talks, a new film featuring Reception teacher Georgia Lucas and NHS GP Dr Emily MacDonagh, as well as practical guidance to help parents support their child's confidence and independence with everyday toileting skills. The resources acknowledge that every child develops at their own pace and that some children, such as those with bowel or bladder conditions or SEND, may benefit from additional time or tailored support.
Practitioners may wish to use and share these resources with parents, alongside the sector-led Potty Training Guide, developed with early years and health experts. As part of the campaign, we've also highlighted some additional resources below that practitioners may find helpful when supporting children and families with toilet training.
Resources
Toilet Training Talks hero film: Toilet Training Tips Before Starting School - YouTube
The Best Start in Life / NHS potty training guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/toddler/potty-training your-child/
The Potty-Training Guide: https://startingreception.co.uk/potty training/
Dingley’s Promise – Support with Toileting
BBC Tiny Happy People – Potty training children with additional needs
BBC CBeebies parenting resources to support pre-school children
Share BBC CBeebies Parenting resources and content with parents and caregivers to support pre-school children as they prepare to start their adventure in early years settings or school.
Check out the ‘skills for starting school’ collection on the CBeebies Parenting website for free, expert advice and activity ideas to grow children’s independence and support their development.
Find help with everything from introducing the potty and toilet independence, taking turns and sharing, to helping with shyness around starting school and managing separation anxiety.
Families can also enjoy a selection of songs, stories, games and advice from CBeebies on BBC iPlayer.
There is also a special CBeebies Parenting Download episode exploring how confidence, communication, emotional reassurance and growing independence can all help children settle into a new environment.
Early years professionals can join free monthly Champions Training sessions to find out more about CBeebies Parenting and how you can use the information with families. Visit the Professionals section for resources to print and share, and sign up to the monthly newsletter for regular updates. If you want to contact the team directly for more information, please email CBeebiesparenting@bbc.co.uk
Selected Ofsted Updates
Paying your annual fee: what you need to know - Published a blogpost by Jayne Coward, Deputy Director for Early Years Regulatory Policy and Practice, explaining the main things childcare providers need to know about fees.
Glossary: education inspection terminology - Updated glossary to reflect the changes made to inspection documents that will come into force in September 2026.
Early Years Quality Improvement Team's Summer Bulletin
Welcome to this extra summer bulletin
Keep in touch
Email: earlyyearscentre@lancashire.gov.uk
Telephone: 01772 539058
Web site: Early years support and training - Lancashire County Council
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LancsEarlyYears/ and http://www.facebook.com/groups/lancsearlyyears/
Complete this form to advertise your job vacancies for free: Recruiting and managing staff - Lancashire County Council
Your sector representatives
Please contact your PVI representatives on the Early Years Consultative Group, Rafael Schiel rafael@giantleapchildcare.co.uk or Sharon Fenton sharon@risingstarslancaster.co.uk if you have any comments or questions that you would like them to take forward to the County Council on your behalf.
Are you a new manager at your nursery setting?
Congratulations on your new role! Please let us know by completing this quick form: New PVI Nursery Manager
This will ensure that the member of the team supporting your setting knows who you are and can support you.
Join the team!
We are currently seeking an Early Years Project Officer to join our team. This is a permanent, part-time role (14.8 hours per week on Mondays and Tuesdays) from the 1st of October 2026, or as soon afterwards as possible. Please note, this is not a term time only post.
For full details of the job description and person specification please visit Early Years Project Officer| Permanent| Part-Time 14.8hrs - LCC Career Site Careers
For an informal discussion, please email your contact details to james.farrow@lancashire.gov.uk Closing date: 24th August 2026
New website
Lancashire County Council are currently changing our website so you may have noticed that your saved links to our webpage and other teams you work with no longer work.
Please visit us at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/early years/early-years-support-and-training/ and save the new link. You will find everything is still there waiting for you. We apologise for the inconvenience.
Some other teams who may have moved: Early Education Funding - www.lancashire.gov.uk/early-years/early education-funding/
SEND Information for Professionals - www.lancashire.gov.uk/professionals/supporting-children-and-families/send information-for-professionals/
Children Looked After Guidance for Early Years Settings - www.lancashire.gov.uk/early-years/children-looked-after-guidance-for-early years-settings/
New safeguarding resources from the DfE
We have published new safeguarding guidance for early years providers to help practitioners, managers and childminders understand and apply the safeguarding and welfare requirements of the EYFS.
The new content provides practical information and advice on creating a strong safeguarding culture, recognising concerns early, responding appropriately, and ensuring children are safe, healthy and supported to thrive.
The guidance includes information on:
• the safeguarding responsibilities of early years providers and practitioners
• the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
• creating and maintaining a strong safeguarding culture
• recognising signs of possible abuse, neglect and harm
• raising, recording and reporting safeguarding concerns
• whistleblowing procedures and when to use them
• safer recruitment and vetting requirements
• working in partnership with parents and carers to keep children safe
• staff training, supervision and ongoing safeguarding practice
• attendance, absence monitoring and information sharing
• resources, posters and links to further guidance and support
By using this guidance and supporting resources, you can strengthen safeguarding practice in your setting, support staff confidence and help ensure every child grows up in a safe, nurturing and protective environment.
New - DfE and NSPCC early years safeguarding training
The Department for Education has launched an online early years safeguarding training package, developed in collaboration with the NSPCC. This training covers sections 1 and 2 of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework’s safeguarding training annex, which all early years educators must be trained in line with every two years. The training is free to access for all early years educators including childminders and reception staff.
A link to the training can be found on the landing page of the EYFS or accessed here.
Section 3, the training for Designated Safeguarding Leads, from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework’s safeguarding training annex is provided by the local authority and can be booked on here. Please note, there is a cost to attend this training.
Updated EYFS Statutory Framework
The Department for Education has published the updated EYFS Statutory Frameworks for both childminders and group and school-based providers, which come into effect from 1 September 2026. This includes clarification of existing expectations as well as a strengthening of safeguarding requirements. Do take time to consider the changes, and update policies and practice if needed. If you work with others, do ensure they all staff understand the changes.
Changes include
Safer Sleep - the safer sleep requirements are now included in the Statutory Framework reflecting the importance of safer sleep practices in reducing the risk of sudden infant death.
Banned Dog Breeds - new paragraph regarding banned dog breeds being kept on the premises or visiting the setting. Screen Use – specific guidance on children’s screen use in early years settings has been included (Help for early years providers: Screen use.)
Notifications to Ofsted - you must now notify allegations of harm, rather than serious harm, involving anyone living, working or caring for children on the premises. This change reinforces the importance of early reporting and transparency.
Safer Recruitment - has been strengthened again, requiring:
• Enhanced DBS checks for all volunteers, including those who are supervised.
• New employees must not begin work before their enhanced criminal record check has been received.
Staff Suitability - further details of what staff are required to disclose which may affect their suitability to work with children.
Domestic Premises - for group settings operating on domestic premises there is now a requirement to notify Ofsted (or a Childminder Agency) of changes to anyone aged 16 years or over living or working at the premises. This is to brings it into line with existing childminder requirements.
These changes will be included in Live Virtual Members Update Meetings and you will receive a copy of the updated audit. Wednesday 23rd September from 9.30 to 11.30am Thursday 24th September from 7 to 8.30pm.
Department for Education and Ofsted vodcast on safer sleep in early years settings
The Department for Education and Ofsted have recently published a joint vodcast on safer sleep in early years settings. This includes an overview of the updated wording in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and then a Q&A with Ofsted colleagues on what this means for inspections.
Home learning environment for children with SEND
Early years practitioners and Best Start Family Hub staff can discover more about the Best Start in Life strategy, and the role of Best Start Family Hubs and early years practitioners in supporting the home learning environment for families with children with SEND in a series of free webinars this autumn.
Follow the links below to book a place:
22nd September 7 to 9pm: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-special-approach-to making-it-real-to-support-families-and-practitioners-tickets-1991759455147
1st October 12:30 to 2.30pm www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-special-approach to-making-it-real-to-support-families-and-practitioners-tickets 1991760129163
13th November 9:30 to 11:30am www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-special approach-to-making-it-real-to-support-families-and-practitioners-tickets 1991760293655
Early Years Quality Improvement Team's Weekly Bulletin
Keep in touch
Email: earlyyearscentre@lancashire.gov.uk
Telephone: 01772 539058
Web site: Early years support and training - Lancashire County Council
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LancsEarlyYears/ and http://www.facebook.com/groups/lancsearlyyears/
Advertise your job vacancies for free: Recruiting and managing staff - Lancashire County Council
Are you a new manager at your nursery setting?
Congratulations on your new role! Please let us know by completing this quick form: New PVI Nursery Manager
This will ensure that the member of the team supporting your setting knows who you are and can support you.
Your sector representatives
Please contact your PVI representatives on the Early Years Consultative
Group, Rafael Schiel rafael@giantleapchildcare.co.uk or Sharon Fenton sharon@risingstarslancaster.co.uk if you have any comments or questions that you would like them to take forward to the County Council on your behalf.
Something to do this week ...Potty training
Parents can sometimes find supporting their child in this normal development step confusing, stressful and a little challenging. Parents will often come to early years practitioners for advice and support. You might have been asked questions such as;
• how will I know my child is ready?
• what do I need to do?
• how long will it take?
Here are some great resources to tap into yourself or signpost parents:
The Potty Training Guide - Starting Reception
Potty training: how to start & best age to potty train - ERIC
www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people/potty-training-tips/zh7kr2p
Children with disabilities may need specific support and charities such as Contact Potty and toilet training | Contact or The National Autism Society Toileting and autistic children (autism.org.uk) can provide specific information for families and practitioners.
Best start in life - collect and share cards
Best Start in Life Collect and share the latest card for practitioners working with 2 year olds. The topics this week are 'Repetition, rhythm and rhyme' (card 24) and 'Quality storytime' (card 25) and the cards are attached to the bulletin email for you to use in your setting and share with parents.
Watch this short video to find out more about our Best Start in Life Campaign and how your setting can get involved.
Updated Birth to Five
Since its launch in 2021, Birth to 5 Matters has become a go-to resource for much of the early years sector in England. Five years on, this new edition aims to keep everything that is valued about the first edition while expanding and updating it to reflect our constantly changing world, with new sections on digital pedagogy, sustainability and on adapting pedagogy to children of different ages. You will find the new birth to five document here: Birth-to-5-Matters-Doc-LINKS.pdf
The Birth to Five website has also been redesigned to improve clarity and navigation, and provided greater integration with the printed version through the introduction of QR codes, allowing readers to more easily seek out further resources in relation to each topic. Take a look now and discover the new features. Birth To 5 Matters – Guidance by the sector, for the sector
Help for early years providers - now includes screentime guidance
'Help for early years providers' website is aimed at nurseries, childminders and pre-school settings. It has recently been updated and now gives useful guidance covering managing screens, appropriate content for young children's brains and advice for working collaboratively with parents and carers.
Find more information here: Help for early years providers : Screen use
Summer learning
As we head into the summer holiday period, it is the perfect time to look ahead to the opportunities and new beginnings that the new term brings. We may welcome new children, introduce new ideas to our setting or change our routines.
This can be a great time to think about gaps in our own knowledge or to think about the needs of the children that continue in our care as well as new children who may be starting with us.
Professional development is important because it not only gives us new skills but it gives us greater confidence in our practice.
Take a look at our 'instant access' training which covers a broad variety of subjects – you might just find the perfect one. Instant access is designed to fit into your own schedule and is flexible so you can dip in and out of the training to suit your personal needs.
Take a look now and plan for your summer of learning: Training and information for all early years settings - Lancashire County Council
Changes to volunteering with children
Due to the Crime and Policing Act 2026, there is a change to regulated activity which will come into force in September 2026.
The change affects settings which rely on volunteers. This is because of the removal of the supervision exemption. From 1 September 2026, all volunteers engaging in regulated activity will need an enhanced DBS check with children’s barred list information. This also applies to holiday clubs and wraparound care.
Providers should read the full guidance here - Regulated activity: removal of the supervision exemption (comes into force 1 September 2026) - GOV.UK
Health and Safety: 'Notification of Change'
Please click on the link to view it on Sway. Notification of Change
The document can be printed if preferred and an accessible version is available. Live spreadsheet A spreadsheet with all the content is also available and will be updated on an ongoing basis. This is in addition to the notification of change document which will continue to be published on Sway on a monthly basis.
The live spreadsheet allows all staff to keep up to date with current changes to guidance and provides easier search and filter options to help locate previous guidance and updates more quickly. If you experience any difficulties accessing Sway or the live spreadsheet please contact the health and safety team by emailing health.safety@lancashire.gov.uk or tel: 01772 538877
Product safety - urgent recall
OPSS has issued a product recall for John Lewis & Partners Doorstops & Draught Excluders. These products are presenting a risk to health due to the marble chips sealed within the doorstops and excluders may be contaminated with a small quantity of asbestos. It is important to note that these products may be available in schools, and we would like for local authorities to share with schools for information and awareness. Details of the recall can be found on GOV.UK
Liverpool City Region and Beyond - July 2026 newsletter
Over the coming months, the Stronger Practice Hub programme will continue to grow as we support the onboarding of 2 new Hubs in the North West and 18 new Hubs nationally. This process will begin during July, August and September. We are also looking forward to welcoming new Learning Leads and Early Years Advisers to the network across England over the new few months. Their expertise and commitment will further strengthen our collective mission to share evidence-informed practice and support continuous improvement across the sector.
Read more here: LCR Hub Newsletter July 2026
Inclusion newsletter 14 July 2026
Inclusion Newsletter (Schools and settings 14 Jul 2026
In this packed final edition of the Inclusion Newsletter of the academic year:
• A message from Paula Green, Head of Service, SEND & Inclusion
• Experts at Hand, SEND Clusters and Inclusion Strategies
• EHCP Consultations, summer 2026
• SEND Service Staffing Allocation
• SEND Capital Programme: Case Study
• Specialist Teaching Service Enhanced Offer
• SEND Roadshows for 2026-27
• Portage Home Visiting
• Banding Document Reminder
• Professional Development opportunities
• Several other updates and reminders For accessibility options
• Click on the link to open the sway
• Click on the three dots (top-right) and select 'Accessibility view'
Froebel Trust - Supporting educators working with children
The Froebel Trust is proud to fund a project that supports educators working with babies and children up to three years. Early childhood education and care professionals working with very young children will soon have access to a host of resources dedicated specifically to supporting their work with children from birth to three years of age.
Froebel Trust | Froebel Trust invests £100,000 to support birth to…
How can you get involved? A Birth to Three Research Insight summarising Froebel Trust funded research will be launched this summer. Sign up to the Froebel Trust mailing list to receive a link direct to your inbox.
Ahead of the launch later this year, the Trust is inviting all those working with children aged 0 – 36 months to express their interest in joining a Baby Room Community of Practice Network. If you are an educator currently working with children aged from 0 – 36 months, please complete our expression of interest form.
Research Insights - Summaries of evidence from research
Froebel Trust Research Insights each include interactive cards providing summaries of the key findings from research and development projects on children aged from birth to 36 months which can be used in settings. A detailed report that shares more information on each of the Froebel Trust funded projects featured is also available. Froebel Trust | Research Insights
Updated EYFS framework - Comes into force 1 September 2026
On 13 July 2026 DfE published updated EYFS frameworks for childminders and group and school-based providers, which apply from 1 September 2026. The main changes from that date are outlined below and represent strengthened safeguarding requirements.
Both EYFS frameworks include safeguarding updates which:
• Bring explicit wording on the safer sleep requirements into the main body of the EYFS, so that providers do not need to refer out to separate guidance.
• Prohibit the provision of registered childcare from any premises where a banned dog breed is kept or is otherwise present.
• Require providers to inform Ofsted or their childminder agency (CMA) of allegations of ‘harm’ (instead of ‘serious harm’) by anyone living, working, or looking after children at the premises.
• Require enhanced criminal records checks for volunteers (including those who are supervised) and prevent new employees from commencing employment before receiving their check.
• Amend the requirements for what providers must tell staff they have to disclose, as part of information that may affect their suitability to work with children.
The group and school-based version also requires providers of childcare on domestic premises to notify Ofsted or their CMA of changes to persons aged 16 or over living or working at the premises. This aligns with existing requirements for childminders.
Children’s screen use in early years settings
Both frameworks also require providers to have regard to screen use guidance for early years settings as published on 13 July 2026. The screen use guidance builds on the guidance for parents published in March 2026 and has been produced with contributions from sector experts including the Digital Standards Early Years Action Group and Early Years Screen Time Advisory Group.
Other changes to the EYFS
Other minor clarificatory changes have been made to both frameworks. These are mainly to make the existing requirements clearer for providers.
Changes to registration requirements - in relation to banned dog breeds
In addition to the changes to the EYFS frameworks outlined above, the department has also updated registration requirements for early years settings as follows:
• Nannies will be prohibited from taking a banned dog breed onto a premises where they are providing childcare, and will be required to take reasonable steps to avoid banned dog breeds being present.
• All other voluntarily registered, Early Years and Later Years providers will be prohibited from providing registered childcare from any premises where a banned dog breed is kept or present.
Early Years Qualifications Requirements and Standards
The Early Years Qualifications Requirements and Standards document will also be updated from 1 September 2026, to clarify the Level 2 English requirements.
Heads up from Health Protection bulletin
Please click on the link for the latest Heads up Health Protection bulletin.
SEND Roadshow for practitioners and parents
Please find attached flyer (on your bulletin email) for our SEND Roadshows across Lancashire. Make sure you pop the date of your nearest roadshow in your work diaries for you to attend and to promote it to parents.
Early Years Quality Improvement Team's Weekly Bulletin
Keep in touch
Email: earlyyearscentre@lancashire.gov.uk
Telephone: 01772 539058
Web site: Early years support and training - Lancashire County Council
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LancsEarlyYears/ and http://www.facebook.com/groups/lancsearlyyears/
Advertise your job vacancies for free: Recruiting and managing staff - Lancashire County Council
Are you a new manager at your nursery setting?
Congratulations on your new role! Please let us know by completing this quick form: New PVI Nursery Manager
This will ensure that the member of the team supporting your setting knows who you are and can support you.
Your sector representatives
Please contact your PVI representatives on the Early Years Consultative
Group, Rafael Schiel rafael@giantleapchildcare.co.uk or Sharon Fenton sharon@risingstarslancaster.co.uk if you have any comments or questions that you would like them to take forward to the County Council on your behalf.
Something to do this week - review your planning for outings
Outings are a fantastic way to enrich children’s experiences, but safety and preparation are essential. Here’s what early years settings need to keep in mind:
Risk Assessment - identify potential hazards and plan how to manage them. Venue safety checks prior to the outing are important.
Parental Consent - always obtain written permission before taking childrenon outings.
Staffing and Ratios – consider appropriate ratios for the activity,environment and individual children attending.
Safety and Supervision - Assign each child to a specific adult forsupervision. Keep a charged mobile phone for emergencies and ensure all children are accounted for at all times.
Transport - vehicles must be safe and insured appropriately. Use correct car seats and seat belts and ensure children are not eating during travel.
First Aid and Emergencies - a qualified paediatric first aider must be present. Bring appropriate first aid provision, emergency contact details, and any required medication or health care plans. Ensure staff make themselves aware of any first aid provision and emergency evacuation procedures at any venue.
Practical Considerations - pack spare clothing, wipes, snacks, and water. Dress children appropriately for the weather and activity.
Identification – consider taking a photo of each child and note what they are wearing that day for quick identification.
Best start in life
Best Start in Life Collect and share the latest card for practitioners working with 2 year olds.
The topic this week is supporting communication and language with back and forth interactions in 'Play talking tennis' (card22) and 'Minimise background noise' (card 23). The cards are attached to the bulletin email for you to use in your setting and share with parents.
Watch this short video to find out more about our Best Start in Life Campaign and how your setting can get involved.
Inclusion newsletter
In this edition of the Inclusion Newsletter:
• A message from Paula Green, Head of Service, SEND & Inclusion
• Specialist Teaching Service enhanced offer
• Portage Home Visiting
• Inclusion Unlocked training from the Specialist Teaching Service
• Banding Document reminder
• LSCFT Autism and ADHD pathways update
• Supreme Court Judgment – Deprivation of Liberty Partner Briefing
• Professional Development opportunities
• Several other updates and reminders
Included in the Newsletter is some free e-learning created for the Early Years. Course: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEN/D) - GMCA | Rise
Free trees from the Woodland Trust
Schools and settings in England, Scotland and Wales can apply for free trees from the Woodland Trust
Community Playthings dream oracles update
If you have Dream Oracles in your setting please read this update regarding their use from community playthings: www.communityplaythings.co.uk/learning library/product-support/dream-coracle-safety-statement
Lancashire Pride awards
These awards recognise the people, groups and organisations whose kindness, dedication and community spirit make a real difference every day. It's simple to get involved and completely free to enter. For further details go to https://orlo.uk/VpvZV Nominate yourself or someone you know before Friday 11 September 2026.
Supporting the families of unsettled babies: evidence into practice study day
Dear colleague,
We are very excited to host an Unsettled Babies study day, examining the latest evidence and research around the causes of unsettledness. The event will explore a range of topics including crying, sleep, parental perceptions, infant regulation, reflux and allergy, evidence for interventions (dietary, positional, pharmacological) and avoiding over medicalisation. It will also look at developing an assessment and support framework and professional responsibility.
Who for: Staff working with families and babies, particularly those based in 0-19 Services, Family Hubs, GP’s, Early Years, Midwifery, Infant Feeding etc.
Colleagues outside Blackburn with Darwen are welcome to book a place.
When: Thursday 10th September 2026, 9am - 4:30pm
Where: Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Road, Blackburn BB2 4HT
Cost: Free (training funded through Blackburn with Darwen Family Hubs)
Booking is essential: Please use link Unsettled Babies Training Booking Form – Fill in form
Doors open 9am; attendees are asked to be seated for 9:15am for a prompt 9:30am start. Drinks are provided throughout the day. Please bring own lunch. Free car parking is available at the theatre.
Please contact Donna Butler with any questions regarding the event:
Donna.Butler@elht.nhs.uk
Public Health Department
Blackburn with Darwen Council
Opportunity to purchase pre-loved furniture and resources
Saturday 25 July 2025
9am - 1pm
Moss Lane Pre-school are having a closing down sale and selling all their furniture and resources. Here is the Facebook link to their event with pictures of some of the resources in the discussion. www.facebook.com/share/19BV6fwdVL/
Moss Lane Pre-school, Scout Head Quarters, Moss Lane, Lostock Hall PR5 5BT
What is Lancashire service finder?
Lancashire Service Finder helps people of all ages find local support. It’s there for residents, as well as for professionals who are helping others. You can use it in your day-to-day work and in your own life, to quickly find services and signpost people to the right support. Link to the service: Lancashire Service Finder
DfE and Ofsted Updates
Early years funding: proposed changes to the entitlements funding system
This consultation document sets out our vision for a reformed early years funding system for the early years entitlements, alongside the proposals for transition in 2027-28. Closing date: 14th September.