Statement: All learning environments will be of high quality, resourced appropriately and rigorously monitored to ensure a culture of high expectations for all. At the centre of all organisations will be a commitment to ensuring the protection of children from harm and neglect.

Principles

All learning environments for adults and children:

• Are healthy and safe
• Value diversity
• Promote inclusion
• Challenge stereotyping
• Support equal opportunities
• Encourage lifelong learning
• Facilitate networks within settings, in the local and global community
• Foster mutual respect through explicit codes of conduct
• Provide access to high-quality technology

Standards: What will it look like
Health and Safety:

• Statutory requirements for health and safety will be met and provision for indoor and out will be secure, safe, in sound repair and clean
• Health and safety documentation will be in place
• Accommodation is fit for purpose and accessible to all learners
• There will be effective procedures in place in line with locally agreed child protection arrangements
• All adults will be trained in child protection and the welfare of children and will be aware of the action needed to minimise these risks

Pastoral:

• Children will have access to well-informed support, advice and guidance as they progress through the stages
• Children will be cared for and guided so that they learn effectively
• Adult support will be balanced between giving children reassurance and guidance and encouraging independent learning to enable children to feel secure, valued and cared for
• Effective induction arrangements for adults and children will be in place
• Premises kitemark for Health and Safety

Parents/Carers:

• Liaison with parents and carers will be encouraged, yet challenged to improve
• Parents and carers will be provided with relevant information particularly about their child’s standards and progress
• Parents and carers will be consulted regularly and their views taken into account to bring about improvements

Staffing:

• Staff will be well qualified and experienced
• Performance management of adults will inform their professional development

Standards: What will it look like

• All adults will have access to one Continuing Professional Development (CPD) experience a year as a minimum
• All settings will be involved in at least one network or partnership that fosters learning
• All schools and settings will achieve Investors in people
• All schools will have foundation stage and nursery/early years opportunities for all children
• There will be an opportunity for international experiences through the British Council
• There will be effective educational links and contributions to wider partnerships
• Effective management arrangements for shared provision will be available if appropriate
• We will promote and recommend that we have trained staff working in early years, including school settings, especially reception classes