What is Effective Early Learning?

EEL is a programme of supported self evaluation and improvement for all settings that provide early education and care for young children aged 4-7 years.  The EEL Programme is a time efficient, quality improvement strategy which offers within one programme:

• A quality improvement programme that takes ECEC settings up to, and beyond, minimum regulatory standards and supports them in a process of sustained and long-term development;
• Professional and theoretical, work place focused, practitioner training;
• Preparation for registration;
• Preparation and support for OfSTED inspection;
• A nationally renowned Quality Assurance Scheme.

How Effective Early Learning works

• EEL begins with an intensive 3-day training programme, followed by a 12-18 month process of setting-led, but well-supported, self evaluation.
• The self evaluation involves the systematic collection of evidence which demonstrates how the setting meets the national standards, and, in addition, assesses the quality of learning experiences offered and experienced by the young child.
• The self evaluation is carried out by the whole team of practitioners within the setting, and also involves parents and children.
• The evidence gathered allows the identification of good practice and highlights what might be needed to raise the quality of provision further.
• The portfolio of evidence is put together into an Evaluation Report, which provides the basis of an agreed Action Plan to improve the quality of services.
• Settings are then supported in the implementation of the Action Plan for quality improvement.
• The success of the Action Plan is reviewed through reflection and further evaluation, leading to the next cycle of action and improvement.

Effective Early Learning as development

EEL is a development strategy. It provides training and support for ECEC settings to move beyond baseline national standards.  The intention of the EEL Programme is to provide a supported development strategy for all ECEC providers, with well-tested systems for ongoing quality improvement.

The process is led by staff teams who, through training, become researchers of their own practice, seeking and using evidence continually to ensure the delivery of high-quality services for all children and families within their setting. EEL develops evidence-based, reflective practice.

If you require further information please call Maureen Saunders on 0121 464 0020.