Ofsted look into link between behaviour and later learning

Kimberley EYC

7 years ago

Ofsted to look at behaviour during inspections to find a link between Early Years education and attitudes to learning later on in life

Under plans, outlined in Ofsted’s annual report for 2015/16, as of next year Ofsted inspectors will collect evidence on listening skills, preparedness for learning and relationships in order to better understand how the early years positively impacts behaviour and attitudes to learning.

This will include looking at how settings can maintain positive behaviour and how negative behaviour is dealt with.

The report reveals that where behaviour is reported as ‘requiring improvement’, this is often linked to a lack of stimulating activities or low levels of challenge in the activities available. Also, staff may manage behaviour inconsistently or not to high enough standards and expectations. The findings will be presented in next year’s annual report.

Ofsted have previously commented on the close link between a child’s ability to communicate and their behaviour. They suggest that children with poor listening, attention and language skills are often unable to communicate their needs effectively and so will display behaviour that may be seen as negative.

With inspections focusing on the children’s behaviour, alongside all other aspects of the Early Years provision, Early Years practitioners may find themselves under more strain.

Ofsted’s latest report also reveals that the gap between the quality of early years provision in poorer and more affluent areas of the country has narrowed during Sir Michael Wilshaw’s time as chief inspector.

There is now almost the same proportion of Good and Outstanding nurseries and pre-schools in the most-deprived areas of the country as there is in the least-deprived.

Do you feel that inspections should also take into account children’s behaviour?