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EY: Publication of the Experts and Mentors Programme Evaluation Report: DfE

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Apr 3 2025

Publication of the Experts and Mentors Programme Evaluation Report: DfE

See message below from the Department for Education:

We are pleased to announce publication of the Experts and Mentors Programme evaluation report. 

There were over 4,900 registrations for the programme, which supported early years settings and childminders to overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19 and provide high-quality provision for all children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It provided personalised coaching for leaders, guidance on best practices and teaching strategies and support to implement the 2021 EYFS framework. Additionally, the programme helped practitioners access the Early Years Child Development Training and offered advice and guidance on meeting the needs of children with English as an Additional Language or Special Educational Needs and Disabilities 

Key Findings: 

  • A positive, statistically significant impact of the programme on practitioners’ confidence in supporting children’s personal, social and emotional development. 
  • Strong evidence that the programme had a positive impact on practitioners’ confidence in supporting children’s communication and language development, but this was not wholly conclusive. 
  • The positive impact on both primary outcomes was larger among practitioners working in settings with higher levels of disadvantage. 
  • Experts, mentors and area leads reported a range of improved outcomes including enhanced professional development and creating new networks. 
  • Setting leaders and staff reported improved skills and knowledge and greater confidence. 

Please see the full report here: Early years experts and mentors programme evaluation - GOV.UK 

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