It is the start of the session at the nursery unit in Sidley County Primary School in Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex. Rather than waiting to be told what to do, the children are flying into action - finding their names for self-registration, taking off their outdoor shoes and changing into plimsolls. Then they are off to choose their own play activities and immerse themselves in the session. This wonderful sight shows how very young children can take on the mantle of independence.
The move toward encouraging children to take control of their own learning and to become independent is reflected in the Foundation Stage curriculum and is being picked up in Ofsted inspections. Sarah Lambert, consultant for early years education and childcare at Blackpool Borough Council, says, 'Ofsted looks to see whether children can access equipment and resources for themselves and also whether children are taking the initiative.'
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