Now that the revised Early Learning Goals are finally out, we asked an expert in each area of learning to give their initial thoughts.

The much-anticipated revised Early Learning Goals (ELGs) for the end of the Reception year are being piloted from September in 25 schools in England. A consultation on the new goals will not take place until after the pilot in 2019.

The Department for Education has said that the measures are aimed at closing the ‘word gap’ between disadvantaged children and their peers, to help children who start school struggling with language and social skills.

They are also intended to cut teachers’ workload to free up more time to support children’s early skills and produce engaging lessons.

The DfE told Nursery World, ‘We know that teachers and practitioners want greater clarity on what to teach in Reception year, and as part of the pilot we will explore what support and guidance teachers think would be helpful. This will include the future of non-statutory guidance such as Development Matters.’

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