DfE sets out who can get free support from stronger practice hubs

Eligible early years settings and childminders in England can get a term of free, tailored support from a stronger practice adviser, the Department for Education (DfE) has said.

The DfE added the details to its guidance on early years training and support on 22 October.

Early years stronger practice hubs are networks of settings with expertise in what works to support children. There are 36 hubs across England, with at least 3 in each region.

Stronger practice advisers

Early years stronger practice advisers (EYSPAs) are experienced early years professionals. They offer coaching, guidance and evidence-informed support to leaders, to help settings identify priorities and strengthen practice.

Support is available to eligible settings, including those:

• judged 'urgent improvement' or 'needs attention' under Ofsted's renewed inspection framework
• judged 'inadequate' or 'requires improvement' under the previous framework
• with children eligible for early years pupil premium
• with children receiving special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support
• with children accessing the early learning for 2-year-olds offer

Settings are matched with an adviser for one term. Support may include visits to the setting, leadership coaching, observation of practice and action planning.

Settings can refer themselves through their local hub, or be referred by their local authority.

Early years learning leads

Early years learning leads (EYLLs) offer free professional development in personal, social and emotional development, early language and early maths. It is for educators working with children before reception.

Settings can also get up to 3 days of free, personalised support. Early maths and early language training for educators working with children under 2 will be available from May 2027.

Safeguarding training

The guidance also points to the DfE's free online safeguarding training. It covers sections 1 and 2 of the safeguarding training annex in the early years foundation stage (EYFS) framework, but not section 3. Designated safeguarding leads are expected to have training that covers sections 1, 2 and 3.

Providers do not have to use the DfE's training, as long as all the criteria in the annex are covered.