EYFS is a comprehensive statutory framework, introduced in 2007 by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). All registered early years providers will be required to use it from September 2008. It sets standards for development, learning and care of children from birth to five, replacing earlier frameworks such as Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage, Birth to Three Matters and National Standards for the under 8s Daycare and Childminding.

Assessment, based on observation of children's learning and development, is an integral part of EYFS. All early years providers are required to complete an EYFS profile for each child during the academic year that he or she reaches the age of five. The purpose is to give year 1 teachers a picture of each child's level of attainment at the end of EYFS, enabling the planning of an effective, responsive and appropriate curriculum that will meet children's needs.

NAA has developed a series of materials offering advice and guidance to practitioners involved in assessing, completing, recording and moderating EYFS profiles including the EYFS Profile Handbook, the Assessment Scales Reference Sheet, the eARA, and the training package Continuing the Learning Journey. Practitioners can also access a wide range of supplementary additional guidance materials, all of which can be downloaded from EYFS profile handbook page.

We also have a list of links to other sites offering useful and interesting EYFS related material.

These pages will continue to develop. A library of video-based exemplification materials should be available to view and download online by the beginning of the autumn. We will also keep you informed about forthcoming events and publications.