Overview & purpose
The Early Years Reference Group (EYRG) exists to strengthen collaboration between Staffordshire County Council and the early years sector.
Its aim is to:
- Support the co-design of future consultations, policies, and recommendations
- Ensure a closer relationship between the council and providers
- Capture a wide range of views in decision-making
- Promote best practice across the sector
What we do
The group meets once every school term and covers:
- Early Years Single Funding Formula (EYSFF)
- Compliance with Early Years Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities
- Matters relating to the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
- The Staffordshire Early Education Funding Provider Agreement
- Improving two-way communication between the council and providers
- Supporting funded early education places for children aged 9 months to 4 years
Additional responsibilities:
- Reporting to the Staffordshire Schools Forum and the Early Education Funding Review Group
- Inviting relevant guest speakers and attendees to share expertise
- Sharing minutes and actions after each meeting
Membership
The group includes representatives from:
- Private, voluntary, and independent (PVI) providers
- Maintained nursery schools
- Childminders
- Other early years professionals
Membership ensures balanced representation across Staffordshire, covering different types of provision and areas of the county.
Terms of reference
Our principles:
- Transparency – open and honest communication
- Collaboration – working together to improve outcomes
- Inclusivity – representing diverse views across the sector
- Accountability – reporting to relevant forums and stakeholders
Meetings are chaired by a Staffordshire County Council representative.
Meeting schedule & minutes
Previous meetings: