Routledge The Nursery Year in Action: Following children’s interests through the year

Child-led learning in the early years allows children to thrive while making accelerated progress. Young children learn and develop best when they are in a stimulating environment which is carefully organised and equipped to meet their needs, interests and stages of development, and where each child’s progress is carefully observed, managed and enhanced by adults who engage and interact with them to support them in making outstanding progress. Demonstrating how a child-led approach supports the development of purposeful, calm, confident and independent children, The Nursery Year in Action offers a unique month-by-month overview of the workings of an outstanding Nursery setting. The book covers all aspects of practice from the organisation of the classroom and garden and the rationale behind this to the routines and boundaries that ensure children are safe, happy and therefore able to explore and learn. It tracks the events of each month in the year paying particular attention to the environment, the role of the adult, links with parents, children’s individual needs and the key areas of learning and development. Throughout the book Anna Ephgrave gives the reason behind each decision and shows what the outcomes have been for the children, emphasising that a child-led approach, with planning in the moment can meet the requirements of the revised Early Years Foundation Stage and the individual needs of the children. Key features include: Over 150 full colour photographs to illustrate practice Photocopiable pages of planning sheets, record keeping sheets, sample letters to parents and play resources also available for download List of resources and materials Examples of individual learning journeys and planning in the moment for groups Guidance on what to look for when assessing children’s progress Advice on risk/benefit assessments Suggestions for managing transitions and minimising stress Written by a leading consultant teacher whose Early Years’ department has achieved "Outstanding" at four consecutive Ofsted inspections, this book provides practitioners with the practical ideas to work with confidence in a way that is rewarding, manageable and, above all, creates a happy, relaxed learning environment for children. Review 'A very practical book that puts the child at the centre of planning and provides inspiration throughout the year. The author's Early Years department has achieved four 'Outstanding' Ofsted judgements - testament to the efficacy of her methods'- Sarah Brew, Parents in Touch 'I learnt a lot reading this book – I understand ‘in the moment planning’ which I didn’t before and I can see how, as a system, it would work well in an early years environment. If you are looking to review or refresh your practice I recommend that you consider Ephgrave’s Ideas, after all 4 ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted’s can’t be wrong.' - Early Years Foundation Stage Forum About the Author Anna Ephgrave is Assistant Head Teacher responsible for the Early Years at Carterhatch Infant School and Children’s Centres. Her first book The Reception Year in Action has inspired and supported settings both in the UK and abroad. She now works part time as a consultant, both nationally and internationally.