Welcome to the SWIfT Early Years Professional Status Website
SWIfT is a formidable partnership between the Local Education Authorities (LEA'S) of Cornwall, Devon, Isles of Scilly, Plymouth, Somerset, Torbay, North Somerset, Dorset, Bournemouth, Poole, The University College of St Mark and St John in Plymouth, University of Plymouth and Bridgwater College.
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"One of the most positive motivations for many is the belief that graduate practitioners in early years have a right to achieve and own a free standing title that recognises their practice, wisdom and academic achievements, and creates a new sector specific professional benchmark that is not tied to the often inappropriate benchmark of QTS"
Penny Holland, Academic Leader for early childhood at the London Metropolitan University. |
Over 2000 people nationally have achieved EYPS since January 2000 with 200 having acheived accross the South West
EYPS is now emerging as a desirable and often essential requirement in advertisements for leadership roles in early years settings
In March 2008 CWDC announced a further £60 million investment for EYPS to ensure the programme can develop in line with national government aims of having an EYP in all Children’s Centres by 2010 and in all full daycare settings by 2015
An extensive £6 million multi media national marketing campaign will begin in 2009 to raise awareness of parents and recruit further candidates
National and local EYP Support networks are in the process of being established and developed providing a focus for professional support and continued professional development.
Why enroll with SWIfT?
SWIfT recognises that for employers people are the most valuable resource, therefore we aim to support individuals across the South West gain recognition for their role and achieve the status they deserve. Our Central Support Team (Integrated Workforce Development) have just been awarded "Investors In People" which demonstrates our committment to personal development.
At the end of your training once you have been conferred you will receive a separate certificate from SWIfT to keep at your setting which outlines the key themes you have acheived and you will also be given a commemorative glass coaster in recognition of your acheivement.
Please click here for further Information about the funding and the types of pathways available:
Please note: this site is still under construction - please check back soon, for more information.
