Child at the centre

Meeting performance indicators
The Child at the Centre contains a set of core values which highlight equality expressed in the statement, 'The development of Early Years services is founded on a commitment to equal opportunities and social inclusion for all'. (p.5)

The performance indicator 5.2 Equality and Fairness, within the key area Ethos, details the level for illustration.

• Policies and practices ensure that children, parents and staff are treated equally, with respect and in a fair and just manner giving due regard, without discrimination, to disability, gender, religious persuasion, racial origin and cultural and linguistic background. Everyone feels valued, safe and secure.
• The centre is effective in promoting and supporting social inclusion.

The lesson plans in this section meet the following performance indicators:

Working in an anti-discriminatory way contributes to both the structure of the curriculum and the quality of programmes by ensuring greater breadth and balance. If children are engaged in free-play choices almost exclusively, then however thorough a nursery's provision is, it is very difficult to ensure that each child actually accesses a broad and balanced curriculum.

Key Area 3.0 - Development and Learning Through Play.

To meet a level four illustration, we must demonstrate that:

• there is a good balance between free play and activities directed by adults.

In addition:

• Opportunities for learning through play are provided in each of the key aspects of children's development and learning.
• Children interact well during activities and share equipment and toys.

Following the six lesson plans in this section would assist in achieving a Level Four for Key Area 3.0.