Early Years

Welcome to the LPDS Early Years page.

New Publication

Key Learning in the EYFS

Do your reception teachers feel equipped to plan effectively for every child in their class?

How well do your subject leaders understand the foundations of their subject within the EYFS framework?

Are you ready to supercharge your EYFS planning?

Key Learning in the EYFS is the ultimate resource for Reception teachers and subject leaders who want to design a curriculum that’s ambitious, well-sequenced and rooted in real developmental progress.

Created by expert consultants at LPDS, this go- to- guide sets out the key learning—skills, knowledge, and concepts—across all seven areas of development. It helps staff check whether children are secure in earlier steps, supports confident decision-making, and links directly to Year 1 expectations so you can plan with purpose and precision.

Why you’ll love it:

Saves time with a clear, easy-to-use layout
Shows how each subject begins from birth and flows into Key Stage 1
Supports transition and progression with direct links to the National Curriculum
Empowers EYFS teams and subject leaders to build a curriculum that truly connects

Whether you're refreshing your provision or leading curriculum design, this is the must-have tool for creating high-quality, joined-up learning from the very start.

Catharine Cummins

Order 'Key Learning in the EYFS'

Brand New Publication

Progression in Play - Sand

You can now purchase 'Progression in Play - Sand' for just £15!

Your ultimate toolkit for playful, purposeful learning in early years!

Support skill progression from ages 2–7
Spark curiosity with open-ended play with carefully chosen resources
Plan, observe, and teach with confidence
Packed with ideas for language, collaboration & creativity
Perfect for continuous provision and joyful learning!

Bring the magic of sand play to life in your setting today!

Order 'Progression in Play - Sand'

Water - Coming Soon!

Early Years Consultant, Catharine Cummins, will be presenting free briefings on the new 'water' publication across the Autumn and Spring terms:

17 September 2026, 3:45pm - 4:15pm
8 December 2026, 3:45pm - 4:15pm
4 February 2027, 3:45pm - 4:15pm
18 May 2027, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
30 June 2027, 3:45pm - 4:15pm

Booking link coming soon.

CPD and Consultancy

Welcome to the 2026/27 Early Years & KS1 Training Offer!

Get ready for an inspiring year of professional development tailored specifically for Early Years and Key Stage 1 educators! Whether you're a seasoned EYFS leader, a teacher new to the phase, a returning practitioner or teaching assistant, we’ve got something exciting just for you.

What’s in Store?

This year, we’re bringing back our most popular and impactful courses, including:

Effective Observations & Curriculum Planning
Indoor & Outdoor Learning Environments
Assessment & Moderation
The Role of the Adult in Early Years
Preparing for Ofsted with Confidence

Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, refresh your practice, or explore new ideas, our training offer is designed to empower and energize your journey in Early Years education.

What's new for 2026/27:

Ready to Write (EAY167) - this is a half-day follow-on to Getting Ready to Write! Book now.
Developing Calm, Predictable and Emotionally Secure EYFS Environments (EAY210). Book now.
Developing Knowledge and Understanding of the World: Laying the Foundations for Future Learning (EAY168). Book now.
New and Updated Full Curriculum Programme (EAY126). Book now.

Special Offer – Buy One, Get One Free!

We’re excited to offer a limited-time BOGOF deal on selected courses – perfect for teams looking to stretch their CPD budget while boosting impact!

Planning a Carefully Considered Curriculum (EAY200)
Explore key considerations when planning, keeping the child at the centre of all that we do.
Getting Ready to Write (EAY143)
Equip children with the foundations for confident, joyful writing starting with Gross and Fine motor skills.
Moving into Year 1 and Effective Transitions (ASS182)
Ensure smooth, supportive transitions that keep learning momentum strong. Perfect for The Reception and year 1 teacher together

2026/27 - Sustained CPD Package over an academic year – Great Value, Big Impact!

Support two members of your team with this comprehensive professional development offer focused on deepening understanding of Key Learning across all 7 areas of the EYFS.

What’s included:

Day 1: Full-day training at Fairfield Professional Development Centre Ongoing Support:
- Five half-day sessions across the year
  - 3 online (one per term)
- 2 in-person at Fairfield
Final Term: Half-day consultancy visit to your setting to plan next steps
Recognition: Certificate awarded and celebration upon completion

This package is ideal for settings looking to embed consistent, high-quality practice across their team and at £850 offers great value for money!