What is the Keyperson Approach?

Every child deserves to be special to someone and the Keyperson Approach recognises this.

The Keyperson Approach is one of the vital principals in the Early Years Foundation Stage and now a statutory requirement of the framework.  It is a reciprocal relationship between a member of staff, individual child and their family.  It provides the child with a sense of security so that they feel confident to explore their world and form further relationships. 

The Keyperson has an ‘invisible elastic thread’ of attachment to their key child, holding them in mind throughout their time at nursery and pre-school.  

What is the role of the Keyperson?

The role of the Keyperson is to know their individual child and to support their sense of identity and individuality.  They need to be aware of their individual child’s and family’s needs, preferences and development.

The Keyperson will usually be the person who welcomes the child and carer to the nursery and helps to settle the child into the session.   Any information shared with the parents is also done mainly through the Keyperson.

·          The key person provides a secure attachment for their key children in nursery and pre-school.

·          They help their key children settle in and become familiar with the setting.

·          The key person provides a ‘secure base’ for the children by being there to support them and allowing them to explore at their own pace.

All staff members will get to know your child and support all children throughout the day.