Register now for a place on one of our EYPS pathways in the South West, West Midlands and Yorkshire and the Humber Regions.
To find out more ...Other case studies can be found in the EYPS Candidate Information booklet. To find out more about which pathway is most appropriate for you, please download and return your completed Full or Validation, Short and Long Pathway Application form to Best Practice Network or visit: the early years section of the CWDC website.
Candidates on this pathway fall into two groups:
To assist candidates on this pathway, Best Practice Network provide a personalised approach - candidates have their own personal tutor and a setting based mentor (from their own or another setting) to guide them through the year and ensure they select, access and build on learning experiences that are targeted on their individualised needs. Best Practice mentors are increasingly drawn from our successful EYP network.
I am on the EYPS Long Pathway. I started in January 2007 and was originally on the Full Pathway, but was then lucky enough to be offered a full-time nursery job so was transferred onto the Long Pathway. I have been working at Munchkins Day Nursery in Exeter since February 2007 who has since applied for the transformation funding.
What do I want to achieve with EYPS?
By studying for EYPS I hope to achieve a whole new professional career. I had not worked with children before starting the course and my job at the nursery, so it seemed like a fantastic opportunity to qualify for a career in this field without needing prior experience or Early Years qualifications. I am not sure of what job to look for after qualifying and would appreciate more guidance on what sort of area would be appropriate in the future.
What has EYPS involved for me in terms of time, work and commitment?
The course has involved a lot of time and commitment, as well as full-time work to gain the relevant experience. I have had to spend every spare moment on immersing myself in literature and resources to do with Early Years. Having started working with children at a similar time has been the best possible way to gain experience in meeting the standards 'hands-on', rather than just from studying. A combination of the two has enabled me to learn a huge amount in a very short space of time already.
How has EYPS changed my work or made me reflect upon my work?
I have not had to make changes in my work due to EYPS as I begun the pathway before working with children, so being familiar with the standards has guided my work from the start. However, I have tried to use the EYPS knowledge as best I can while being trained at the nursery. I am constantly taking on board relevant Early Years information in terms of how it can be used to improve my work.
Have I made any changes in my everyday practice?
My everyday practice is still developing as I continue training at work and studying for EYPS. The more I learn through familiarising myself with EYPS standards, the more I develop confidence and skills in my practice.