Understanding Training Priorities in Early Years Education
- Nov 19
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Should parents ask about training priorities? Should staff inquire as well? And does it truly impact children? The short answer is yes. As Emma and Sophie discuss, the reasons are more profound than many realize.
Why Training Matters — For Everyone
Parents often think that having initial qualifications is sufficient for staff. However, Early Years education is constantly evolving. Policy shifts, research advancements, and best practices are always changing.
Ongoing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) ensures that educators remain current, confident, and ready to meet every child’s needs.
Regular CPD isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential.
1. CPD Keeps Children Safer
Emma and Sophie emphasize that certain training must be refreshed regularly:
Safeguarding
Child protection
Health and safety
Understanding child development
Staff cannot be expected to remember complex requirements indefinitely. Regular training helps teams stay aligned with the latest standards, ensuring children remain safe.
2. CPD Builds Quality Practice
A well-trained team brings a deeper understanding of children’s development, wellbeing, and learning. Parents benefit from this too. A confident and informed team can better support each child.
Emma points out that information boards, displays, curriculum guidance, and learning documentation are clear signs of a setting that values professional development and communicates effectively with families.
3. CPD Supports Staff Growth and Job Satisfaction
For educators, asking about a setting’s training priorities isn’t just acceptable; it’s necessary. A nursery that provides:
Regular training
Appraisals
Supervision
A clear professional development structure
…is a nursery that values its staff.
This focus directly impacts mental wellbeing, motivation, and the positive energy practitioners bring into their early years environments. As Sophie explains, supported teams create supported children.
4. CPD Improves Consistency — and Children Feel the Difference
High staff turnover and poor communication are major red flags. When settings neglect CPD or staff wellbeing, teams struggle, leading to inevitable inconsistency.
However, when training is prioritized, staff stay longer, communication improves, and children benefit from stable, nurturing relationships.
5. The Field is Evolving — Training Keeps Practice Evolving With It
The Early Years sector has transformed dramatically over the last 10–15 years. From behavior management approaches to emotional regulation, the changes are swift. As Emma notes, “the change can be quite quick,” which is why ongoing CPD is a core part of best practice.
Ultimately, whether you’re a parent selecting a setting or a practitioner choosing where to work, training priorities should be at the top of your list.
The Importance of Ongoing Learning
Ongoing learning is crucial in the field of Early Years education. It not only enhances the skills of educators but also enriches the learning environment for children. Continuous training helps educators adapt to new challenges and methodologies, ensuring they can provide the best support possible.
Embracing Change in Early Years Education
As the landscape of Early Years education continues to evolve, embracing change is vital. Educators must be open to new ideas and practices. This adaptability not only benefits their professional growth but also positively impacts the children they teach.
Ready to Strengthen Your Own Practice?
Explore our upcoming CPD courses designed for Early Years educators across the UAE. From literacy foundations to child development, behavior, and leadership — we offer sessions that support every stage of your professional journey.