Summary of DFE Coronavirus Guidance for the Early Years Sector

Early Years Specific Guidance

Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus outbreak

  • First published on 24 March 2020

  • For all early years providers in England registered with Ofsted and childminders registered with childminder agencies for children of all ages including nurseries and wraparound childcare, before and after school clubs and holiday clubs
  • Does not cover nannies or au pairs
  • Includes information on re-opening for early years settings, funding including CJRS and temporary changes to 30 hours free early education entitlements, Ofsted, data collection, early years foundation stage and a section on childminders

Early years foundation stage: coronavirus disapplications

Statutory guidance note detailing the elements of the early years statutory framework which have been temporarily disapplied and modified during the coronavirus outbreak.

  • The changes allow providers greater flexibility to respond to changes in workforce availability and potential fluctuations in demand whilst still providing high quality care
  • Temporary changes came into force on 24 April 2020
  • Modifications include using ‘reasonable endeavours’ to meet existing L&D requirements, no EYFS profile assessment in 2020. greater flexibility on staff qualifications, and important 'best endeavours' requirements on paediatric first aid certification

Early years planning guide

  • Outline of practical steps and considerations to take into account for settings to prepare for wider opening from 1 June
  • Sets out the protective measures and approaches early years settings should look to implement
  • Covers preparing premises, reviewing staff availability, measures to reduce risk of transmission, communicating with staff, parents and carers on plans, planning 'small, consistent groups’ to reduce contact between groups children and staff, signposting safeguarding and SEND requirements as well as EYFS considerations