The Department for Education has updated it’s guidance for on Actions for Early Years and Childcare Providers during the Coronavirus (COVID=19) outbreak which includes a change to the protective measures in Early Years settings removing the requirement to keep children in small consistent groups (bubbles) within the setting as from 20th July.
Other changes include:
- New content on risk assessment, supporting staff with increased risk factors and system of controls which is a new way of describing the protective measures in settings
- Updated content on attendance at settings for those shielding, with changes to the advice effective from 1 August, and removal of content on vulnerable children since settings are open for all children
- Update on Early Years Foundation Stage Reforms
- Update on Reception Baseline Assessment
The DfE stated that they are continuing to work with the Early Years sector to understand how they can be best supported to ensure that sufficient safe, appropriate and affordable Childcare is available for those returning to work and for all families who need Childcare in the longer term. The guidance will be under constant review as the DfE continue to monitor the situation over the summer.