Dear Colleagues,
Updates from the Team
Early Learning for Twos (ELF2)
You will see some changes to the eligibility checkers in wizard from Monday next week regarding what was previously known as ‘Disadvantaged 2 Year Old Funding’. In line with the changes from central Government, this funding will now be referred to as ‘Early Learning for Two’s (ELF2)’. Please see an example of what you will see from next week below;
Boys Survey
As part of our drive to better understand the needs of Northumberland’s boys and approve their attainment outcomes by the end of reception, we are kindly encouraging all providers to complete our Northumberland Boys Survey with the boys at your setting. We hope to gather the voices of as many boys as possible, so please take part! Thank you for your help.
Keeping Children Safe in Education- proposed changes
On February 12th, DfE launched a consultation seeking views on proposed revisions to the ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ (KCSIE) statutory guidance for schools and colleges in England. The consultation closes on 22 April 2026.
Please click on the link for more information.
National Minimum Wage
National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates are increasing from April 2026.
Are you ready?
If you manage payroll yourself, HMRC offer live webinars designed to help you to understand the upcoming changes, stay compliant with NMW legislation, avoid costly errors and ensure workers are paid correctly.
You can also ask questions throughout using the on-screen text box.
Getting ready for the National Minimum Wage increase
During this webinar we’ll cover:
- your responsibilities as an employer
- current and upcoming rates from April 2026
- how pay reference periods work
- common errors and risks that can catch employers out
- what to do if you discover an underpayment
You can choose from 3 dates:
- register for Wednesday 11 March 2026 at 10am
- register for Thursday 12 March 2026 at 2pm
- register for Wednesday 18 March 2026 at 10am
Updates from Partners
Kindred Squared Starting Reception Information
Starting school is an exciting milestone for children and their families. To help make the transition into Reception as smooth and positive as possible, we encourage settings to share Starting Reception (www.startingreception.co.uk) with parents and carers of children in their preschool rooms who will be starting school in September.
Kindred Squared Toothbrushing Guide
Along with the Starting Reception information, Kindred Squared have also released a Toothbrushing Guide. Please share this link with parent/carers
Ofsted are recruiting
Ofsted are recruiting for Early Years Regulatory Inspectors. If you might be interested in this role, please follow the link below;
Early Years Regulatory Inspector – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK
Upcoming Events
EYFS Conference 2026: Wired to Learn – Free to attend!Attachment 1
Discover the neuroscience behind early childhood at the 2026 EYFS Conference: Wired to Learn, a specialised professional development event for Early Career Teachers, new EYFS leads, and practitioners. Hosted by Three Rivers Professional Development Institute and Cheviot Learning Trust, this conference explores how developmental cognitive neuroscience can enable a successful, child-led approach in the classroom. We are delighted to welcome keynote speaker Professor Sam Wass, a renowned child psychologist and expert from Channel 4’s ‘The Secret Life of 4 Year Olds’, who will share specialist insights into child concentration and stress. Attendees will also participate in workshops featuring Cheviot Learning Trust, The Great North Early Years Stronger Practice Hub, Newcastle Research School, Northumberland Education & Education North Tyneside.
This free event takes place on Thursday, 11 June 2026, from 9 AM to 3 PM at St James’ Park, Newcastle. Secure your place by scanning the QR code on the event flyer or visiting this booking link https://wkf.ms/469Ucfa
