The HighScope Perry Pre-School Project in the US was evaluated from as early as 1962, but is still commonly cited as a prime example of the effects of high-quality early years care and education on threeand four-year-olds from low-income families. It is the figure of $16 saved for every $1 spent that has become the mantra of those pushing for greater early intervention.
This is the approach taken by the Local Authority Research Consortium in commissioning the NFER to do research into the Common Assessment Framework (News, page 3). Typical CAF process costs of a couple of thousand pounds are contrasted with savings on expensive specialist services of up to £100,000.
The difficulty of applying this sort of formula to services such as children's centres - where success is sometimes more about a renewed optimism for life or a boost in self-confidence - can leave them more vulnerable to cuts.
Nursery World's Communication Masterclass
We're thrilled to be holding a half-day Communication Masterclass on 6 July. A stellar line-up consists of Colwyn Trevarthen, Professor (Emeritus) of Child Psychology and Psychobiology at the University of Edinburgh; consultant and EYFS review team member Helen Moylett; and Alice Sharp, MD of Experiential Learning. Attendees will hear about the latest academic research, the implications of the EYFS Review for practice, and a host of great ideas for resources and environments. Visit www.nurseryworldcomms.com.
