Research Tools
The use of research tools to support evaluation of practice and to inform quality improvement is embedded in many aspects of our work, specifically using the Environment Rating Scales.
The Environment Rating Scales
The Environment Rating Scales (ERS) are highly regarded research tools used for assessing the quality of early years settings. They have been shown to predict development in the EYFS, KS1 and beyond, including performance in national tests. The rating scales also provide a means of tracking improvement over time to provide evidence for Ofsted.
The ERS align closely with the Early Years statutory guidance from across the UK as well as internationally. They are used by many settings and schools in over 50 local authorities across England and Wales.
There are seven Early Years quality rating scales in all.
ITERS-3
Infant Toddler Environment Rating Scale Third Edition by Thelma Harms and colleagues – evaluates centre-based provision for children from birth to 3 years.
ECERS-3
Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Third Edition by Thelma Harms and colleagues – evaluates centre-based provision for children aged from 3 to 5.
ECERS-E
Extension to the ECERS-R by Kathy Sylva and colleagues– focuses on support for the specific areas of learning and development for children aged 3 to 5
SACERS
School Age Care Environment Rating Scale by Thelma Harms and colleagues – evaluates out-of-school provision for children aged 5 to 12 years
FCCERS-3
Family Child Care Environment Rating Scale by Thelma Harms and colleagues – evaluates childminding provision for children from birth to twelve
SSTEW
Sustained Shared Thinking and Emotional Wellbeing Scale by Iram Siraj and colleagues – considers practice that supports children aged 2 to 5 years in developing skills in sustained shared thinking and emotional well-being, developing strong relationships, effective communication and aspects of self-regulation.
MOVERS
Movement Environment Rating Scale by Carol Archer and Iram Siraj – measuring the quality of environment and pedagogy in which young children are encouraged to move and be physically active.
Further Information
For information about the ERS written in the US including updated clarification notes please see The Environment Rating Scale Institute (ERSI) website.
