It is well known at the attainment gap starts to develop long before children arrive at school. But what can we do in the EYFS to tackle the problem early on? Daniel Sobel offers his reflections

The notion that the attainment gap emerges during the early years has been proven by educational and sociological researchers the world over, and used for political point scoring and policy formation.

For example, the Bercow Review (2008) says that a large proportion of children start school with limited basic communication skills, which are vital for an effective start to schooling.

The report highlights that there is a direct link between young children’s language and communication skills and their academic achievements down the line. Similarly, the Rose Review (2006) highlighted the importance of developing children’s speaking and listening skills, which are essential for the acquisition of literacy.

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