early years

Narrowing the gap in outcomes for young children through effective practices in the early years (Research Review 1)

Report that presents findings from a rapid review of research and national data on the impact of certain background characteristics on outcomes for children in the early years. It seeks to identify the approaches that are most effective in reducing educational disadvantage and promoting positive outcomes. The review focused on children from birth to seven years of age and included evidence published since 2000. A total of 465 items of literature were identified and considered for inclusion in this review.

Narrowing the gap in outcomes for children through effective practices in the early years (Knowledge Review 1)

Knowledge review that tells us what works in narrowing the gap in outcomes for young children through effective practices in the early years. It is based on a rapid review of the research literature involving systematic searching, analysis of key data, validated local practice examples and the views from both people using services and service providers. It summarises the best available evidence that will help service providers to improve services and, ultimately, outcomes for children, young people and their families.

Maternal and Early Years

Website that covers the early years in four sections: Pregnancy, 0-3 years, 3-5 years and 5-8 years. It is aimed at everyone working in the early years workforce. It covers a wide range of information and settings within the early years topic and provides information that is relevant to practitioners at many levels. A key element of the site is to provide the best possible links to up-to-date information, resources and support.

A Scotland for children: a consultation on the Children and Young People Bill

The Scottish Government is committed to addressing the challenges faced by children and young people who experience poor outcomes throughout their lives. To do this, services will need to be child-centred, responsive and joined up. Children and young people deserve services that can intervene more effectively and earlier in their lives and that listen and take full account of their views

This consultation paper sets out a vision for how to achieve this vision through legislation.

Improving attendance at school

Attendance has been steadily improving in the last few years, but there were still 57 million days of school missed in 2009/2010. The evidence shows that children with poor attendance are unlikely to succeed academically and they are more likely not to be in education, employment or training (NEET) when they leave school.

This report examines the trends in school attendance, parental sanctions and effective school practice.