Introduction
In Somerset, we recognise the importance of early education and believe that every child deserves the best start in life to support them to reach their full potential. One of the ways we can improve outcomes for children is by working together.
We have developed 11 Early Years Communities across the county to support practitioners who deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage. They are locally run by committees that consist of an Early Years Practitioner lead, Teacher lead, Childminder lead and Health or Head Teacher lead.
The aim of the Early Years Communities is to support continuous quality improvement, share best practices and develop alliances to share and maximise resources. Members decide on what sort of CPD opportunities to hold and everyone is encouraged to have a “voice”.
Who can access the Early Years Communities
All colleagues across the Early Years Foundation Stage can access the networking and CPD opportunities within their community.
Who can be involved within a lead position of an Early Years Community
Anyone who works within Early Years in Somerset can apply to be a Lead role. We need people from the below roles to take on responsibilities within each community. You can be a named lead role or be more of a supporting role to the existing leads.
- Early Years Practitioner Lead
- Childminder Lead
- Teacher or school Lead
- Head Teacher Lead
- Health Lead
Our communities
This map outlines the 11 geographical areas for the Early Years Communities. This will help you decide which community is the most beneficial to your setting or school.