Rebecca Clevett: My journey to EYPS

I was keen to undertake the EYPS for a number of reasons. I had recently progressed from nursery teacher to the nursery head at Archfield House Nursery and it seemed like a fantastic way to ensure that I was able to meet all the required standards. Initially I was unsure whether I would be eligible for the validation pathway but after a needs assessment (now called Gateway Review) it was clear that I did have the necessary skills and I then felt confident that I would be able to demonstrate all the EYPS standards. I knew that the process would help me focus on my current role for the benefit of not only my professional development but for the benefit of the staff, parents and primarily the children in our care.

EYPS Validation Pathway

The 3 month validation pathway was not an easy route. It certainly had its challenges, due to such tight time constraints coupled with all the pressures and demands of being at the forefront of a thriving and busy private nursery. However, I liked the idea of being part of the initial cohort and especially being one of the very first EYPS candidates in Bristol so I persevered with it through sheer determination, but enthusiasm and motivation heading the way.

Best Practice Network, who was my training provider supported me very well and gave clear direction every step of the way. I also valued all the support and expertise from the other EYPS candidates. I am keen to share my newfound status by becoming an assessor and mentor and have started to train for these roles with Best Practice Network.

After a busy Christmas period getting ready for the setting visit in early January I breathed a sigh of relief when I put my final piece of evidence into my evidence folder. The setting visit, despite all the hype and worries, was an enjoyable experience and confirmed my knowledge of the 39 broad and thorough standards. I had been able to draw upon a previous employer in order to demonstrate my experience over a broader period of time.

CWDC EYPS Awards Evening, 6 March

Little did I know that the journey to EYPS was far from over. I was approached by Best Practice Network to act as a representative at a national awards ceremony held in London. This was an event to celebrate the first cohort of EYPS graduates as well as the key people involved in the implementation of the EYPS. I was provided with accommodation in the heart of London and the ceremony was held at the Commonwealth Club.

The awards ceremony was hosted by Floella Benjamin from 'Play Away' and 'Play School' days. (I really showed my age at our setting when the majority of the staff had not heard of her.) She gave a motivating and inspiring talk and looked not a day older.

The certificates were awarded by former Education Secretary Estelle Morris who has recently stepped down as chair of the CWDC (the creators of EYPS!!) Beverley Hughes the Children's Minister was unable to attend at the last minute so Bill Rammell, the minister for further education spoke on her behalf to congratulate candidates.

It was great to meet other successful EYPS graduates from all across the country and share the ups and downs of this status of the future.

Before heading back to Bristol the following day I decided to conclude this stage of my route to EYPS by having tea for one in the London Savoy. As I sat there sipping my Early Grey tea amidst business men and lunching ladies I reflected on the whole experience.

A few words of advice for EYPS Candidates

If I had any advice for future candidates, it would be that, if undertaking the validation only route, to ensure that you set aside time for yourself so that you can purely dedicate to studying and accumulating evidence. There is also now a six month, short extended professional development route (that wasn't available to our group) and a longer one over l5 months, which I would recommend you consider if 3 months feels too pressurised. From a setting point of view as well, the £500 provided to the setting for validation candidates, towards release costs, is not sufficient and each setting would need to be committed to topping up that money to ensure that the candidate is able to work to their full potential. If you are in receipt of the Transformation Fund Quality Premium this is an ideal source of support.

"The final piece of advice would be to study the 39 standards scrupulously. For the whole process, trust me - you live and breathe each one so that it is imprinted on your mind!!

I am aware that there are mixed opinions regarding this status and still a few issues that need to be ironed out by CWDC. However, it goes without saying that we are all working in this profession to improve the quality of provision for children. Therefore, improving the skills and increasing the knowledge of practitioners to whatever level can only be beneficial. The Government's main aim is to create a workforce so that the profile of early years is raised and that there are improved outcomes for children. This is my aim too and so I am delighted to be one of the first to have Early Years Professional Status and work with others in the early years workforce to help them achieve it too.

I hope to meet you somewhere on your journey to EYPS!