When the idea of Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) was introduced back in 2007 under the previous Labour government, it was largely welcomed by the sector. As well as providing a recognised career path, it was also hoped that the new qualification would increase both the status and salary of experienced professionals working with very young children.
Labour's pledge to have a graduate leader in every daycare setting by 2015 provided further hope. For the first time, it seemed, senior early years practitioners might be viewed on an equal par with those in similar professions, such as teaching.
So three years and a change of government later, how has EYPS fared? And what has been the impact on the workforce and children's learning?
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