High Quality Physical Development Courses in Early Years

The High Quality Physical Development Courses – Early Years programme is a flexible CPD offer designed to support all Early Years staff, including ECTs, RQTs, EQTs, HLTAs and other school staff responsible for Physical Development. Formerly known as the NQT / ECT courses, the programme has been refreshed to reflect current Early Years practice and a wider range of staff roles.

Schools can access the 4 section programme flexibly, depending on staff needs and priorities. Each part has a different focus, ensuring relevant, practical professional development across all areas of Physical Development.

What the programme includes

Each session combines:

• Clear theory, covering planning, delivery, review and reflection
• Adaptations, assessment and recording within the Early Years context
• A strong focus on safety and Early Years statutory policies
• Observation of high‑quality practice, taught by a real teacher with real children
• Practical exploration of activities and the learning environment

The training is free to enhanced member schools when selected as their chosen free course. A charge applies for other schools.

Section 1 – Gross and Fine Motor Skills

This session sets the scene for Physical Development in the Early Years, linking curriculum requirements to practical classroom and outdoor practice. Delegates explore gross and fine motor skill development through hands‑on activities, alongside observation of children accessing these activities in practice.

There is a strong focus on organisation, resourcing and activity design, with ideas that can be implemented immediately to support children’s physical development.

Section 2 – Dance

This session supports staff to feel confident teaching dance in the Early Years, an area many find challenging. It revisits the Early Years curriculum, ELGs and progression pathways, introduces dance “in a nutshell” and explores dance genres and key vocabulary.

Delegates observe a high‑quality dance lesson, explore how it was planned and where learning goes next, and consider planning and assessment in Early Years dance. Staff are invited to trial an approach and return with reflections.

Section 3 – Developing the Outdoor Learning Environment

This session focuses on maximising the impact of the Early Years outdoor learning environment. Delegates explore what should be included, why resources are placed where they are, and how each area can be developed to support Physical Development.

The session includes live observation of children and staff in the outdoor environment, alongside video examples of high‑quality practice, resourcing ideas and guidance on developing learning opportunities across all areas.

Section 4 – Fundamental Movement Skills through Games Activities

This section revisits the curriculum context for Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) and explores different types of games, moving thinking beyond traditional sports. Delegates observe a high‑quality lesson and take part in practical activities following a Reception unit of work.

Delegates get the opportunity to participate in practical activities to develop their understanding and experience learning.

The session highlights progression, organisation and management of games, and staff are encouraged to trial approaches in their own setting and return with feedback.