Understanding the New Early Learning Goals – Real-Life Examples for Educators

With the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework now fully in place, many early years practitioners are seeking practical guidance on what the updated Early Learning Goals (ELGs) actually look like in practice.

To support this transition, we’ve worked closely with early years consultant and author Dr. Sue Allingham to create a new video training package within the Siren Films Video Library. This resource is designed to bridge the gap left by outdated exemplification materials and provide educators with clear, real-life examples of children working within the ELGs.

Why This Matters

In a recent article for Nursery World, Sue Allingham shared her concerns:

“The changes to the Early Learning Goals mean that the exemplification materials that had been so useful have become obsolete… I became concerned about the misunderstandings I was seeing on social media… especially around what an ELG looks like.”

With “Exceeding” now removed from EYFSP judgements and confusion around terminology and expectations, there’s a clear need for accessible, informed video examples that reflect current practice and provision.

A Practical, Video-Based Approach

Together with Sue, we reviewed the updated Educational Programmes and ELGs in depth and identified key areas where visual examples could help clarify expectations for:

  • Educators in schools and nurseries

  • Local Authorities delivering training

  • School-based assessment and moderation teams

 

Using our existing footage — along with newly filmed material — we’ve built a growing collection of video clips that:

Show children working within the revised ELGs

Demonstrate meaningful adult interactions and quality teaching

Highlight what a ‘good level of development’ can look like in context

Include reflective questions and guidance for professional development

How to Use the Materials

Each clip is accompanied by practical training notes and reflection questions, making them ideal for:

  • Individual CPD

  • Inset training sessions

  • School-wide or MAT moderation

  • Local Authority-led CPD

The full package is part of our Early Years Clip Library, which continues to grow and evolve. It’s designed to support assessment not just at the end of reception, but from birth to seven.

Start exploring the new exemplification materials today To access the ELG training clips and the full Clip Library, you can sign up for an annual subscription — with full access to over 520 clips and resources for early years development.

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