Nursery World - EYFS: Assessment

Observation is central to assessment for the new Progress Check at Two and the revised EYFS Profile, says Jan Dubiel, national development co-ordinator for Early Excellence.

One of the most contentious aspects of the EYFS has always been that of assessment; and by implication, the paperwork that many believe must accompany it.

Much of the DfE's commitment to reduce bureaucracy under the revised framework appeared to be aimed at the belief within the sector that copious written observations, photographs and Post-it notes were required as evidence for every word, action and thought demonstrated by a child in the setting. Although this was never the intention of the EYFS or the EYFS Profile, many practitioners believed this level of unnecessary excess was a statutory requirement.

CLEAR PURPOSE

The new document goes to great lengths to make it clear that the process of assessment has a clear purpose. This purpose is to identify children's interests, abilities and achievements in order to plan and support their continued development. Practitioners use assessments, their knowledge of children, to challenge, support and extend learning.

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