Research shows that having a high quality early learning and development experience in the early years is an important predictor of a child’s success in later life. Achieving or exceeding expected development levels at the end of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) will ensure children are well placed to continue making progress at primary and secondary school. At the end of Reception, children's progress is assessed against 17 Early Learning Goals. This indicator tracks the percentage of children who are assessed as working within, or beyond, the expected level.

In 2022, 60% of children at the end of their reception year in school were working at an expected level in all 17 Early Learning Goals. This was the same figure as last year but in view of the continued impact of COVID that is evident in young children, we feel that this is a realistic and positive position. The three prime areas of learning have all increased this year from 71% in 2021 to 86% in 2022 which is an indication of the appropriate teaching focus on these critical areas along with a focus on children's well-being and involvement at 86% and 82% respectively.