Early Years Foundation Stage Profile Handbook Updated
The Department for Education (DfE) has updated the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile handbook, enabling children to use their established or preferred mode of communication—such as signing or other non-verbal methods—for all Early Learning Goals (ELGs). This includes the "speaking" ELG, which previously emphasised spoken language.
The change, announced on December 1, 2024, reflects growing recognition of diverse communication needs in early education, ensuring inclusivity for children who are non-speaking or use alternative methods to express themselves.
Early years practitioners welcomed the amendment, stating it ensures equitable assessment while honouring each child’s unique abilities. The updated handbook advises educators to consider a child’s individual communication mode when evaluating progress.
The move aligns with the DfE's broader commitment to fostering accessibility and inclusion, enabling all children to thrive and demonstrate their learning in ways that suit them best.
