Children are observed continually as part of everyday practice in order to understand their stage of development and to plan meaningful next steps in learning. Ongoing observation and assessment ensure that learning experiences are responsive to each child’s individual needs, interests and abilities.

From September 2021, all children in Reception complete the statutory Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA) within the first six weeks of starting school. The RBA is a short, practical assessment that looks at children’s early skills in:

• communication and language (speaking and understanding),
• early literacy and phonics, and
• early mathematics.

The assessment is carried out in a familiar, supportive environment and is used to inform teaching and support children’s progress.

In both Nursery and Reception, teachers make assessment judgements about children’s all-round development at the end of each term. These judgements are based on a range of evidence, including observations, interactions, and children’s work.

At the end of Reception, children’s attainment is assessed against the Early Learning Goals (ELGs) as part of the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile (EYFSP). Parents receive a report outlining their child’s achievement in each area of learning. Children are assessed as:

• Expected – meeting the expected level of development
• Emerging – not yet reaching the expected level of development

Further information about age-related expectations in the Early Years can be found in the guide What to Expect in the EYFS.