Targeted support to strengthen leadership, improve practice and enhance outcomes for children.
The Early Years Stronger Practice Adviser (EYSPA) Programme is a Department for Education initiative delivered through the Thames Valley and South Central Early Years Stronger Practice Hub.
The programme provides targeted, evidence-informed support to eligible early years settings, helping leaders strengthen practice, improve outcomes for children, and narrow the disadvantage gap.
Whether you are a group-based setting or a childminder, this programme offers the opportunity to work alongside an experienced Early Years Stronger Practice Adviser who will provide tailored coaching and practical support to help drive sustainable improvements.
What is the EYSPA Programme?
The Early Years Stronger Practice Adviser (EYSPA) Programme is a new Department for Education initiative delivered through the Early Years Stronger Practice Hubs (SPH). The programme provides targeted support for eligible early years settings to:
- Boost children’s development
- Improve outcomes for children
- Narrow the disadvantage gap
- Strengthen leadership and practice
Selected settings will receive support from an experienced Early Years Stronger Practice Adviser (EYSPA), who will coach leaders and help improve practice within the setting.
Support Available
Group and School-Based Settings
Selected settings will receive:
- 3–4 full working days of face-to-face support
- Tailored coaching and improvement planning
- Support delivered within a single school term
- Practical strategies linked to identified areas for development
Each setting will normally receive one support offer through the programme, although additional support may be considered where appropriate.
Childminder Settings
Selected childminders will receive:
- 4 days of support over one term
- A combination of online and/or face-to-face support
- Small cluster-based support with up to four childminders
- Coaching, professional development and opportunities for collaboration
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for support, settings must meet at least one of the following criteria.
Ofsted Criteria
Your setting may be eligible if your most recent Ofsted judgement includes:
Post-November 2025 Ofsted Framework
- Needs Attention
- Urgent Improvement
Pre-November 2025 Ofsted Framework
- Requires Improvement
- Inadequate
The support provided will focus on helping settings address identified areas for development and strengthen practice.
Additional Eligibility Criteria
Group and school-based settings may also be eligible if they have children on roll who are:
- Eligible for Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP)
- Eligible for the Early Learning for 2-Year-Olds Offer
- Children with SEND who qualify for additional support
Please note that applications meeting the Ofsted eligibility criteria will be prioritised, as the primary aim of the programme is to improve and strengthen leadership and practice.
Settings may meet more than one criterion, and the Stronger Practice Hub will work alongside Local Authorities to determine which settings would benefit most from support.
Apply for Support
Group and School-Based Settings
Apply Now
- EYSPA Programme: Group-based support application
- Supporting documentation is available to download below.
Childminder Settings
Apply Now
- EYSPA Programme: Childminder support application
- Supporting documentation is available to download below.
Questions?
If you would like to find out more about the EYSPA Programme or discuss your eligibility, please contact the Thames Valley and South Central Early Years Stronger Practice Hub.
Email: [email protected]
Together, we can support stronger practice, stronger leadership and better outcomes for children.