Early Years Pedagogy Essay

Within this theoretical discussion I will address how current principles of early years’ pedagogy have been affected by the work of pioneers of early years’ education. Modern day Early Years Education has been hugely influenced and built upon the ideas and theories of historic and current pioneers and legislation. The statutory framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage is a legal document that sets out the standards required for the development, care and learning of children aged birth to 5 years. The EYFS must be followed by all schools and Ofsted-registered early years providers. Within the EYFS it is stated that “Every Child deserves the best possible start in life and support that enables them to fulfil their potential” and therefore

Practitioners can implement this into practice through a number of ways such as both observing and understanding the development and learning of each individual child, before assessing any learning progress and planning the next course of action. The idea that children’s learning and development should be closely observed and assessed can be linked to Plato (427 B.C–346 B.C). Plato believed that it is observation that allows practitioners an insight into what children are interested in, what they are good at, and where they may need additional support; from this they are then able to plan any next steps. A Unique child also states that both children and their family should be respected and value, this belief was shared by Robert Owen (1771-1858.) Robert Owen opened a school for the children of his factory workers in order to provide the workers with childcare, and the children with education. Teachers within Robert Owens school were given clear instruction that they were to never physically or verbally punish any of the children within their care, instead they were to speak to them kindly and treat them with