NCB recently delivered five free Learn – Explore – Debate events focused on supporting early years settings to implement the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The events brought early years practitioners, local authorities, consultants and academics together with officials from the Department for Education and Ofsted to take an in-depth look at reducing unnecessary workload, tracking and assessment.

Our second session explored different kinds of practice to help us understand self-regulation in the early years and think about some of the practical ways we can support children and staff.

The recordings, slides and case studies from the events are now available to view below.


Introduction from the National Children’s Bureau

Gill Holden gives an introduction to the event and an overview of NCB’s role as the Department for Education’s stakeholder engagement partner.


Session 1: Reducing workload: data, tracking and assessment

Reducing unnecessary paperwork – Department for Education – download the slides

The Department for Education provide an update on the EYFS reforms and share key messages on reducing unnecessary paperwork and tracking.

Ofsted and the EYFS reforms – download the slides

Ofsted share their key messages on the EYFS reforms.

Understanding the revised EYFS and Development Matters – Dr Julian Grenier

Dr Julian Grenier delivers a presentation on understanding the revised EYFS and updated Development Matters.

Inclusive practice case study – Tania Choudhury

In this case study, Tania Choudhury, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Co-ordinator at Sheringham Nursery School and Children’s Centre, shares how they support children with SEND at their setting.

Early adopter case study – Vicky Dewar

In this case study, Vicky Dewar, Nursery Teacher at Northumberland Church of England Academy, talks to us about her experiences of the early adopter year and how the revised EYFS has supported her and colleagues to reflect on their practice and reduce unnecessary workload.


Session 2: Self-regulation in the early years

Interview with Dr Suzanne Zeedyk

In this interview, Dr Suzanne Zeedyk gives us an overview of self-regulation and co-regulation, helping us to understand the early learning goal and the role adults play in children’s lives by talking about the science, thinking about real-life experiences and providing practical tips.

Self-regulation case study – Lullaby Lane Nursery

In this case study, Lullaby Lane Nursey, an attachment-led setting, expand on some of the points Dr Suzanne Zeedyk made around focusing on the adults around the children to support with children’s emotions and wellbeing.