Assessment in the EYFS

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is an integral part of a child’s holistic development as it provides the foundations to start their academic journey preparing children for school life and ‘their future learning and successes’ (The British Association for Early Childhood Education, 2012a).

The Development Matters document is non statutory guidance for the early years curriculum, highlighting the four main principles within the foundation stage which are ‘A unique child, Positive relationships, Enabling environments and Learning and Development’ (The British Association for Early Childhood Education, 2012b). These are considered the main principles of the EYFS curriculum and ‘emphasis children’s learning and health’ (Cohen, 1996:1). As a result these titles have become the focus of early years practitioners. Educators are able to choose their own classroom pedagogy and methodology to implement these principles however the focus of play work is a popular pedagogy.

In addition this document provides guidelines for the practitioner to follow when measuring pupil progress. Each goal relates to the development of a child’s mental, physical, social, emotional and spiritual growth, therefore evidencing holistic development. The attainment of these targets can be measured via learning journals that contain photographic evidence and observation of the child in action.

Below are key notes made before working 4 weeks during an EYFS placement. The extra research provided me with a greater insight into how practitioners assess the younger children, often by questioning their thoughts and feelings and by careful observations evidencing how this is incorporated into practice.

Ways to record pupil progress-

Learning journals

Apps

Observation records

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