Impact of the Early Years Professional Development Programme highlighted in new case study video
We’re delighted to share a new and inspiring testimonial video from Goddard Park Daycare Centre, showcasing the transformative impact of the Early Years Professional Development Programme (EYPDP).
Delivered on behalf of the Department for Education, the EYPDP empowers early years practitioners by providing high-quality training across the core areas of Communication and Language, Early Mathematics, and Personal, Social, and Emotional Development.
In October, Early Childhood Education (ECE) Consultant Jan Dubiel visited the setting to see firsthand how the team has applied their learning from the EYPDP, witnessing the outstanding progress they’ve made.
The heartfelt testimonials in the video illustrate how the EYPDP has boosted practitioners’ confidence and skills, enabling them to support children’s development more effectively.
“From the very first session, I realised there was so much to learn, even though I’ve worked in early years for 28 years as a teacher, manager, and SENCO. I was revisiting things I’d forgotten… I can’t emphasise enough how much we want this programme to continue, because what we’ve shown you today is the result of what we gained from it.” – Setting Manager, Goddard Park Daycare Centre
Building confidence and overcoming challenges
In the video, Setting Manager Diane Yohans explains that before participating in the EYPDP, the team had explored various training options but still struggled with low confidence. The programme’s focus on investing in staff – the most valuable resource in early childhood education – has made a real difference.
“[The EYPDP] has given us more confidence and belief in ourselves that we’re doing the right thing, and it encourages us to keep pushing to do more for the children.”
Early Years Practitioner, Goddard Park Daycare Centre
How applying the content has made a difference:
- Communication and Language
By employing strategies such as pausing, reinforcing familiar words, asking open-ended questions, and using sensory approaches, Diane explains how her team has seen notable improvements in the children’s communication and language skills, particularly for those who started at the setting completely non-verbal.
- Early Mathematics
By integrating mathematics into everyday routines, such as turning snack time into a valuable learning opportunity, the team has been able to incorporate more mathematics into the setting and have realised that it’s ‘all around.’ They’ve also been working with parents, advising them on how to support mathematical learning at home.
- Personal, Social, and Emotional Development (PSED)
Towards the end of the video, Diane explains how focusing on staff wellbeing has created a more harmonious environment, which is benefiting both the team and the children.
Jan Dubiel praised the team’s dedication:
“The EYPDP has clearly reinforced the excellent practices already in place at Goddard Park Daycare Centre. However, it’s evident that the programme has also provided them with new strategies and the confidence to trust their instincts, which is wonderful to see.”
Watch the full testimonial video here: