The site, www.foundationyears.org.uk developed by 4Children, in partnership with the Government, aims to be a one-stop shop for all those working in childcare, health or education, whether in the maintained or private and voluntary sectors.
4Children launched the parents’ side of the website, Families in the Foundation Years: From pregnancy to children age 5, in July.
The 'professionals hub' will aim to:
- act as a reference point for the early years sector
- engage and canvass the views of professionals on developments and issues in the sector and promote and distribute this knowledge to the Government and the public
- promote events and opportunities relevant to professionals working with young children and their families
- provide practical support for professionals
- host information on policy developments and publications
- provide downloadable resources and best practice case studies
Anne Longfield, chief executive of 4Children said, ‘The launch of this new website puts a new spotlight on the foundation years and provides everyone with an interest in young children, across all relevant sectors, with the support they need at their fingertips. I hope everyone will make good use of the resource and spread the word to friends and colleagues. In doing so, we can strengthen the Foundation Years and really deliver for children and families everywhere.’
The first issue to be discussed on the site is the core purpose of children’s centres.