Early years professional development in Scotland: An emerging framework of qualifications

Abstract

SUMMARY In Scotland, as in other parts of the UK and Europe, there has been a growing demand for a more coherent conceptual and structural framework for the qualifications of those who contribute to the education and care of children in their early years. This paper examines the current diversity of Early Years qualifications in Scotland and looks critically at the factors which are now enabling a more coherent framework of qualifications to emerge. The key role played by the new Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) which is designed to support wider participation and lifelong learning in Scotland will be highlighted and in particular the part played by the SCQF Early Years pilot group. Characteristics of the emerging framework will be identified and a critical assessment made of the next phase in framework development. The paper concludes by offering a number of recommendations to those involved in similar work in other countries.