Interpreting Foundation Stage Profile Data

Background information

The Foundation Stage Profile is a way of summing up a child's progress and learning across the six areas of learning at the end of the foundation stage. The profile is made up of thirteen scales based on the early learning goals and stepping stones as set out in the curriculum guidance for the foundation stage. The Foundation Stage Profile handbook provides guidance for practitioners on how to make assessments on the basis of their observations and knowledge of the whole child. Full details of what practitioners need to do can be found in the Foundation Stage Profile section of the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 Assessment and Reporting Arrangements 2005. http://www.qca.org.uk/9974.html.

The child's attainment on the 13 scales can be recorded in a Foundation Stage Profile booklet or the e-profile.

The purpose of the profile

• To summarise children's achievement at the end of the foundation stage.
  
• A basis for reporting to parents.
  
• To provide data to the Local Authority.
  
• To provide aggregate data to the DfES.
  

What support is available?

Locally

Moderation which aims to be supportive and developmental as well as securing consistent standards in assessment judgements.
Courses on using the Foundation Stage Profile.
Access to e-profile through the esinet site.

Nationally

Foundation Stage Profile handbook including DVD.
Information on the Primary National Strategy website http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/primary/foundation_stage/.
Training material sent to all schools 'Continuing the Learning Journey'.

The DfES has requested that Local Authorities do not require schools to complete additional assessments.

Links to Further Information

Six Areas of Learning

Reading the Data

Interogating the Data

Notes from Pauline Hoare, Regional Director of the Foundation Stage with responsibility for the profile