Early Learning and Childcare Professionals Hub

This section is designed specifically with early learning and childcare professionals in mind. It brings together tailored guidance, practical tools and clear information to support inclusive practice in ELC settings.

The hub will help you to:

Understand additional support for learning in ELC settings and your role in providing it
Identify children’s needs early and respond
Plan, deliver and review support in partnership with families and other professionals
Know where to go for further advice, resources and support when needed

Girl with Down syndrome covered in paint when drawing

Understanding additional support for learning in ELC settings

In this section you will explore what additional support for learning means in the early years and how it fits within everyday practice. It sets out key principles, terminology and the laws around additional support for learning.

A young mother holds her preschool age daughter in her lap as she sits across a table from her daughter's new teacher for a meeting.

Identifying and assessing children’s needs

In this section you will find guidance on recognising when a child may need additional support and how to observe, assess and record concerns appropriately.

Nursery teacher sitting with a parent and her Down Syndrome son in the classroom. they are discussing the little boys progress.

Planning and delivering support in ELC settings

In this section you will explore what additional support for learning can look like in the early years and the different ways support can be provided.

a mother and her child having a meeting with a childcare worker. They are in a community centre surrounded by toys.

Working with families

This section explores how to build positive, collaborative relationships with families. It highlights effective communication, shared decision-making and supporting families throughout the process.

Little girl in a mask, treatments respiratory tract with a nebulizer at home

Supporting children with healthcare needs

In this section you will find guidance on supporting children with healthcare needs in early years settings. It covers responsibilities, medication, personal care and working in partnership with families and health professionals.