Moving the Box: Transforming Early Years Practice in Durham

The Moving the Box programme represents an innovative approach to early years education in Durham, supporting Reception teachers to better understand and respond to children's individual needs. By providing structured opportunities to observe and engage with pupils, the initiative helps educators identify potential barriers to learning early, before they become entrenched, ensuring that foundational skills are secured during the critical Early Years Foundation Stage. Central to the programme's success is its emphasis on building strong relationships between teachers and children. Through careful attention and responsive teaching practices, staff can create nurturing classroom environments where every child feels seen and supported. This focus on relational practice sits at the heart of improving outcomes during the transition from early years settings into formal schooling. The work in Durham offers valuable insights for local authorities seeking to enhance early years provision within their schools. As Reception classes bridge the gap between nursery and Key Stage 1, programmes that help teachers pay closer attention to individual children's development can strengthen school readiness and lay stronger foundations for future learning and wellbeing.