As some of you know, I am currently studying for my Doctorate at Manchester Metropolitan University. Although the study can be challenging, I love the fact that it allows me to read things I would never normally read and meet people I would never normally meet. This week my guest blog post comes from Visiting Research Fellow Martina Street. Have a read and see what you think. Martina is employed by Manchester City Council and has over 20 years’ experience working in the Early Years sector in low‐income areas. She is also an Associate of the Early Intervention Foundation, and a Visiting Research Fellow at Manchester Metropolitan University where she was recently seconded to support the development and … Read More
OP&L Part Two – How It Works In Practice
Last week we talked to you about OP&L and the principles behind our approach to assessment. This week we will tell you more about how it works in practice. So how does OP&L look in practice? Milestones Opal works on the basis of having very simple, six-monthly child developmental milestones, which we use to monitor children’s development. These milestones reflect what we believe a ‘typical’ child, should be able to achieve. When looking at the statements, we assess if the child has met the milestones and record a simple ‘yes’ or ‘not yet’. We know that not all children will have ‘typical’ development. Opal allows us to tell and celebrate each child’s story and focus on the support they need … Read More
Rainbow Maths Sticks – Guest Blog from Creative Star Learning
If you haven’t come across Creative Star Learning, then it is a definite to add to your blog list. It is hosted by the lovely Juliet Robertson who has some brilliant ideas for outdoor learning and play. I asked her if she would share a post on my blog. I am pleased to say she said ‘yes’! So, here it is. Thank you Juliet! The mathematical potential of a stick never ceases to amaze me. Here’s my latest idea which is remarkably simple and came about owing to overhearing someone mention colour coding. You get some sticks. You paint the ends different colours. You play with them. You explore the potential for maths. That’s it. Experiment! Now if you have … Read More
Big bang! Small hands… Big ideas! Creative woodwork in early childhood.
Big bang! Small hands… Big ideas!Creative woodwork in early childhood This week I have the great pleasure of welcoming Pete Moorhouse back to my blog for a guest post. Pete is an early years creative consultant and artist educator. Pete is the UK’s leading authority on woodwork in Early Years education and has written several books and journal articles, including ‘Learning Through Woodwork’ (Routledge). He is currently working his latest book – ‘Creativity in Practice: Nurturing creative and critical thinking in early childhood education’. Pete won the national award (2019) from the Creative Learning Guild for his work promoting creativity in education. These are exciting times. In recent years there has been a surge of interest in woodworking in early … Read More