The Graduated Approach Explained: How SEND Support Is Evolving in Early Years

The Graduated Approach (Assess–Plan–Do–Review) becomes increasingly central under the White Paper reforms. Early years settings are expected to demonstrate responsive cycles of support.
Mar 1 / Kim Tupper EYFS Training Hub

Why the Graduated Approach Matters

It provides structure without bureaucracy, helping practitioners adapt teaching and care thoughtfully.

What This Looks Like in Practice

Assess – noticing patterns
Plan – agreeing realistic adjustments
Do – implementing strategies consistently
Review – reflecting and adapting
This cycle repeats naturally within daily practice.
https://www.eyfstraininghub.com/blog/early-identification-in-early-years-what-the-new-schools-white-paper-really-means-for-send-practice

What You May Start Doing Differently

• Planning fewer strategies but applying them consistently.
• Reviewing impact regularly.
• Including families in reflection conversations.
• Viewing review as learning, not evaluation.

Practical Actions

• Add SEND reflection to supervision meetings.
• Record adjustments alongside outcomes.
• Celebrate small developmental progress.
https://www.eyfstraininghub.com/blog/workforce-skills-and-send-confidence-why-training-expectations-are-increasing

Safeguarding Connection

Consistent review reduces the risk of unmet needs becoming behavioural or emotional distress.

Key Takeaway

The Graduated Approach is structured reflection — not extra paperwork.
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This article forms part of our Schools White Paper series supporting early years professionals.
You can read the full overview of the five key changes here:
👉 https://www.eyfstraininghub.com/blog/the-new-schools-white-paper-5-changes-early-years-settingsmust-know
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Related Reading: Schools White Paper Series
• The New Schools White Paper: 5 Changes Early Years Settings Must Know
• Early Identification in Early Years
• From EHCP Dependence to Early Support
• The Graduated Approach Explained
• Multi-Agency Working in Early Years
• Workforce Development and SEND Confidence
Kim Tupper is the Founder of EYFS Training Hub, providing practical, high-quality safeguarding and early years training for childminders and early years teams.
Explore our training or get in touch to find out more.