This methodology relates to the data first published in October 2019, the main summary tables (results at national and local authority level).. A further methodology document covering the results by pupil characteristics can be found at GOV.UK.
The Early Years Foundation Stage Profile (EYFSP) is a teacher assessment of children’s development at the end of the EYFS (the end of the academic year in which the child turns five). It should support a smooth transition to key stage 1 (KS1) by informing the professional dialogue between EYFS and KS1 teachers. This information should help Year 1 teachers plan an effective, responsive and appropriate curriculum that will meet the needs of all children. The profile is also designed to inform parents or carers about their child’s development against the early learning goals (ELGs).
Following an independent review of the EYFS, a new profile was introduced in September 2012 and the first assessments using the new profile took place in summer 2013.
The profile and EYFS have a stronger emphasis on the three prime areas of learning which are most essential for children’s healthy development. These three areas of learning are: communication and language; physical development; and personal, social and emotional development. The profile requires practitioners to make a best-fit assessment of whether children are emerging, expected or exceeding against each of the 17 ELGs. As the content changed between the old and the new profile, comparisons cannot be made with pre 2013 EYFSP results.
Further information on the EYFS profile assessment and reporting arrangements, alongside other EYFS resources, can be found on the early learning and childcare webpage.
Areas of learning and learning goals (see definitions section for more information)
The EYFS framework contains 17 early learning goals in seven areas of learning covering children’s physical, intellectual, emotional and social development;
The assessment scales
The EYFS profile captures the areas of learning as a set of early learning goals. Children are assessed against the 17 early learning goals.
Assessment rating
1 - indicates a child who is at the emerging level at the end of the EYFS
2 - indicates a child who is at the expected level at the end of the EYFS
3 - indicates a child who is at the exceeding level at the end of the EYFS
A - indicates a child who has not been assessed due to long periods of absence, for instance a prolonged illness, or arrived too late in the summer term for teacher assessment to be carried out, or for an exemption
For more detailed information see the EYFSP handbook.