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Reflection Toolkit

Ensure your provision is truly inclusive

The Reflection Toolkit is a resource that encourages educators to consider areas where provision may need adjustment, in order to support children with learning differences and disabilities. The Toolkit aims to ensure all children have the best possible chance of making progress and to provide a holistic picture of a child’s learning. It was created by the Education team at the Foundation Stage Forum and the Early Years Inclusion and Portage team at Doncaster Council who worked in partnership for 12 months on the project. You can read more about the Doncaster Council Early Years Inclusion and Portage team journey in this article from EY Inclusion officer Ann Lowe.

The Reflection Toolkit was devised following the new Early Years Foundation Stage Reforms and research showing increasing overlaps between social disadvantage and SEND. A number of key messages from the Early Years Foundation Stage Reforms led to its development, notably:

  • Reducing recorded evidence and paperwork and an emphasis on increasing time spent with children learning about their individuality and learning strengths brought welcome considerations about how we assess children with SEND.
  • An emphasis on understanding child development and that children do not develop on a linear pathway but in different directions at different rates.
  • A greater understanding of the importance of developing an increased dialogue with families, valuing their input and their unique story and background.
  • An emphasis on recognising the individual child’s strengths and a commitment to reducing barriers to children’s access to good early years education.

Download the Reflection Toolkit