Petition The Welsh Government should work with ESTYN to reduce the pressure and expectation during ESTYN inspections for non maintained nurseries in wales
Early years practitioners across Wales dedicate their lives to nurturing and educating young children. However, the pressure and expectations surrounding Estyn inspections can cause significant mental and physical stress, including anxiety, sleepless nights, exhaustion and loss of confidence. We are calling for the Welsh Government to work with ESTYN to ensure a fairer, more supportive and proportionate approach that maintains high standards while protecting practitioners’ wellbeing and recognising the realities of early years education.
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We are calling for the Welsh Government and ESTYN to reform of inspections for non-maintained nurseries in Wales, with greater consideration for staff wellbeing. Inspections need to provide a fair picture of a setting, recognising that children’s learning and development cannot always be demonstrated within a short observation. We want clear, consistent expectations, proportionate evidence requirements, constructive feedback and a focus on improvement. The fear and pressure of inspection outcomes can leave experienced, passionate practitioners questioning their abilities and confidence. This can impact mental health, physical wellbeing, staff morale and retention. We are not asking for lower standards or reduced accountability. We want an approach that protects children while treating the workforce with fairness, compassion and respect. Those who care for our youngest children deserve to feel supported, valued and able to thrive.
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