Dear Colleagues,
Updates from the Team
Estimates Figures Deadline SPR 2024-25 (School360 users only)
The deadline for submitting your estimated figures via the Wizard is Sunday 12th January. If you require a password reset, please email earlyyearsteam@northumberland.gov.uk
Headcount Spring 2024-25
For those of you who submit your early years data via school360, the pre-populated forms will be available in the SPR 2024-25 file in your school360 account by the end of today. Submission deadline – Friday 17th January.
To locate your file go to Drive > use the search bar to type in your provider ref > 2024-2025 > SPR 2024-25
You must complete the correct form. If you are experiencing problems locating the SPR 2024-25 form, please contact a member of the team at earlyyearsteam@northumberland.gov.uk
Schools Forum
The Schools Forum is a key consultation body in relation to Education Funding in Northumberland. Its membership is intended to represent the Education community in Northumberland who act as the voice on behalf of the sector. The Schools Forum currently have a vacancy for a PVI Nursery / Pre School Early Years Representative.
The Forum meets approximately 6 times a year. If you are interested in serving on School Forum or would like further information please contact Bruce Parvin, Education and Skills Business Manager via bruce.parvin@northumberland.gov.uk or Kay Summers, Early Years Adviser at kay.summers@northumberland.gov.uk
Under 2s Working Families Eligibility
Please ensure you double check that all start dates on codes are on or before the 31st December (and birth dates – 31st March 2024 for under 2’s) for spring term as we cannot pay for any codes with a start date after this until the summer term.
A summary of checks is provided so you can keep track of eligible children and their codes to claim funding. You can filter on age range and term using the functions displayed in the top red box. Please note when you select a term, the first column ‘Term’, will clarify which term that is. The second red box displays the 3 new functions which help you know the child’s age and the validity of the code. Please note validity displays if the code is eligible to be used for the selected term. Full guidance can be found here.
Financial Incentive Pilot Bonus Scheme
Good News!
As you know, the FI bonus was due to end in December.
However, following local feedback and new opportunities to maximise recruitment opportunities in line with the roll out of the childcare expansion, Northumberland EY Team have agreed with DfE to extend the Pilot further until March.
If you feel you have someone eligible, please complete the following Form.
Please see attached guidance for eligibility criteria.
Should you have any queries, please contact theresa.kirkwood@northumberland.gov.uk.
Updates from Partners
Critical Engagement with Children’s Literature by Early Years Educators
Exciting news!
Northumberland EYP Network conducted a research case study on literature and unconscious bias, in partnership with the University of Northumbria at Newcastle. This involved 23 local practitioners from 13 settings in Northumberland.
You may enjoy reading the final published article here. A special thanks to all who participated.
Upcoming Events
Training Directory – Spring Term Guide
The Northumberland Early Years Training Directory is available through the School Readiness Passport. Please see the guide attached for an overview of our spring term CPD offer.
Don’t forget to explore our Learning Library platform which is also available through the School Readiness Passport. Our pre-recorded videos, articles and supporting documents are stacked on the shelves ready for you to explore today.
Early Years Leaders Briefing Spring Term
Please find flyer attached for information including dates and how to book your place.
Early Years Alliance: Two-part series: Early years policy update – what’s changing in 2025?
Wednesday 22 & 29 January, 6.30pm – 7.30pm
Part one: An overview of the changes: 6.30pm – 7.30pm, Wednesday 22 January 2025
Part two: A focus on safeguarding: 6.30pm – 7.30pm, Wednesday 29 January 2025
Click this link to book your place.
