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Cultural capital in the early years foundation stage

The Education Inspection Framework (EIF) is now used by Ofsted. Inspectors use it to judge the quality of education and assess the curriculum. They also want to see that children have the knowledge and 'cultural capital' they need to succeed in life.

Wendy Ratcliff is Her Majesty's Inspector (HMI) in Early Years. She explained what the cultural capital judgement means. Think about:

  • how you use the early years foundation stage (EYFS) curriculum
  • what you know about your children - the experiences children arrive with
  • planning for what children need to learn and develop

She gives this example. If lots of language isn't used at home, children will know fewer words. This could affect their future success. It also links to the government’s social mobility ambition to close the word gap. Can you use this knowledge to use the EYFS curriculum to make a difference for these children?

Supporting children's cultural capital

This term might be new to you. Yet, it refers to best practice that inspectors have always looked at. You'll support children's cultural capital if you:

  • meet the requirements of the EYFS
  • consider the 'unique child'

How much do you know about individual children?

  • Are they read and sang to at home?
  • Do they have an opportunity to play outside?
  • Do they experience days out with their family? What do they enjoy doing?
  • Do they take part in activities at home, such as baking or gardening?
  • Is their home language development supported?
  • Can you talk about how you build activities around a child’s interests with confidence?

To find a child's cultural capital, as a key person you can:

  • use knowledge of the child
  • observe the child on a regular basis
  • get to know about and value the child's experiences and interests
  • use these things as a starting point to promote learning and development

The cultural capital is part of the home learning environment. Don't separate them. You have a role to play in supporting this too.

Remember, it is not:

  • a list of cultural activities to tick off
  • about 'cultural activities' such as violin or French lessons
  • valuing some experiences that children have at home above others

It is vital to accept that every home has a cultural capital that is of great importance to the child. You must give equal value to it.

Don't overthink cultural capital. Give children activities that excites and stimulates them every day in the EYFS!

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