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EYFS 2025 Update: What Childminders and Early Years Settings Need to Know Before September 1st 2025

  • jayneparker15
  • Jul 15
  • 3 min read

Introduction: The EYFS Is Changing – Are You Ready?


EYFS 2025 Update

From 1st September 2025, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework will be updated — and whether you're a registered childminder, a nursery practitioner, or manage an early years setting, this change directly affects you.


To help you get prepared, we’ve put together this essential guide that:


  • Explains the key changes in EYFS 2025

  • Highlights what it means for your role

  • Shows how our Level 3 Early Years Educator course supports your compliance and development


What Is the EYFS?


The EYFS is the statutory framework that all early years providers in England must follow. It sets standards for:


  • Learning and development

  • Care and safety

  • Safeguarding and welfare


It applies to:


  • Childminders

  • Nurseries

  • Preschools

  • Reception classes


The framework helps ensure that every child has the best start in life — and that all early years professionals meet consistent expectations.


Which EYFS 2025 Update Version Applies to You?


There are two updated versions of the EYFS 2025:


Be sure to download and review the version that’s right for your role.


What’s Changing in the EYFS 2025?


Here’s a summary of the most significant changes that apply across both versions:

1. Learning and Development Goals Refined


  • Greater emphasis on communication and language, particularly in the 0–3 age range

  • More clarity around early numeracy and problem-solving

  • A renewed focus on physical development linked to self-regulation and behaviour


2. Safeguarding and Welfare Updates


  • Stronger guidance on digital safety, including technology use in early years settings

  • Updated protocols for allegations, mental health, and staff suitability

  • Clearer language on designated safeguarding lead (DSL) roles and responsibilities


3. Assessment and Observation Expectations


  • Reduced paperwork emphasis: quality over quantity in observations

  • More focus on professional judgement when tracking child development

  • Clearer guidance on early identification of SEND needs


4. Focus on CPD and Qualifications


  • A stronger push for ongoing CPD

  • Encouragement for practitioners to complete recognised qualifications, like the Level 3 Early Years Educator

  • Expectations for mentoring and induction support for new practitioners and assistants


What This Means for You — Childminders & Settings Alike


If you’re a Childminder:


  • You’ll need to review and update your safeguarding and welfare policies

  • Understand and implement the new learning goals with your children

  • Ensure your professional knowledge reflects the new expectations (especially in areas like digital safety and SEND)


If you work in or run an Early Years Setting:


  • Staff teams will need CPD and upskilling to stay compliant

  • You may need to revise training plans, supervision, and observation expectations

  • A review of policies on e-safety, safer recruitment, and staff mental health will likely be necessary


In both cases, a recognised qualification like the Level 3 Early Years Educator supports professional development, compliance, and inspection readiness.

Why This Is the Ideal Time to Start Your Level 3 Early Years Educator Course


Whether you’re a childminder or part of a team in a nursery or preschool, the Level 3 Early Years Educator course is a valuable investment in your future.


At COCAL Distance Learning College, our course is:


  • Flexible – Study online, around your work and family life

  • Recognised – Fully mapped to EYFS and Ofsted standards

  • Career-focused – Leads to better opportunities, increased confidence, and compliance


We support:

  • New entrants to the sector

  • Childminders wanting to professionalise

  • Practitioners needing a qualification for ratio or compliance reasons



Real-Life Impact: Case Study

“As a registered childminder, I knew the EYFS was changing and didn’t want to be left behind. The Level 3 course from COCAL helped me update my practice and gave me confidence to handle assessments and safeguarding with more authority.” Hannah, Registered Childminder, Manchester

Early Years Childminder


Final Thoughts: Stay Compliant, Confident, and Career-Ready


The EYFS 2025 update reflects the growing importance of early years education and the vital role practitioners play. Whether you’re a solo childminder or working in a busy nursery, being prepared is essential.


With updates affecting observation, safeguarding, language development, and professional expectations, now is the time to:

✅ Get qualified

✅ Update your knowledge

✅ Be confident for inspections and compliance checks


Enrol Today in the Level 3 Early Years Educator Course


Start now to be fully prepared for the 1st September deadline. Join hundreds of others investing in their future through flexible, supportive training with COCAL.


Email: info@cocaltraining.com and one of our team can help you




 
 
 

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