Developing Professional Practice in the Early Years encourages the reader to critically consider key aspects of early childhood education and care. The book is a valuable and accessible tool for those on professional pathways to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) or those engaged in Early Childhood Studies programmes or similar degree programmes courses relating to early years practice. This book will also be of interest to those engaged in continuous professional development (CPD) programmes. The book recognises the important contribution that early years education and care can make to children's future outcomes. It can be read in-depth or dipped into when need arises. Each chapter will help the reader to engage with challenging concepts and ideas which underpin early childhood policy and practice. Strong practical elements to the book aim to support the application of learning to high quality practice with young children. The generic term 'early childhood professional' is used throughout the book to encompass the diversity of roles within early childhood practice. The book aims to support the reader to critically consider the complexity of 'being professional' in contemporary early childhood practice by providing a strong theoretical and practice-based framework of the role and context of the early childhood professional. Key features of the book include: * Reflective tasks to support critical thinking about key aspects of professional practice * Case studies to enable the reader to learn from stories and situations about real professionals and their practice * Positive Practice Impact (PPI) boxes to provide specific examples of good professional practice in early childhood. Each chapter of this essential text concludes by signposting further reading - book chapters, journal articles, websites - to build greater depth of knowledge and extend the reader's understanding of early childhood theory and practice.

To achieve Early Years Professional Status candidates must demonstrate that they have effectively led the professional practice of their colleagues across the 0-5 age range. The second edition of this popular text helps Early Years students and experienced practitioners develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to do just that. It explains the nature of leadership and the EYP's role in promoting good practice and appropriate values and principles. This new edition has been fully revised and updated and includes new chapters on leading practice in a multi-professional context and the leader of practice as an agent of change.

To achieve EYPS, candidates must understand the Early Years Foundation stage (EYFS), and how to put it into practice. This text supports those on all EYPS pathways to extend their knowledge and understanding of effective pedagogy within the context of the EYFS. It begins by looking at effective practice in the EYFS and how research has informed recent initiatives. It goes on to cover children's learning and development, safe and stimulating environments and the role of the adult. The text considers how EYPs can support others in their practice to improve the delivery of learning throughout their setting.