ABSTRACT
In this chapter we consider the role of supervision in safeguarding children and staff, and draw upon the stories of early years practitioners as the basis for understanding the concept of safeguarding in practice. Supervision is an essential process of professional communication to and from the practitioner, where the focus is on competence, accountability, continuing professional development and personal support. Supervision therefore serves a number of aims, including ensuring that staff are effective in everyday practice; an opportunity for support, encouragement and critical feedback; a forum for reection on practice; and time to consider any personal issues that affect or are affected by practice. Overall, effective supervision aims to value and develop staff to ensure they are prepared and committed to high-quality, safe practice. By the end of this chapter you will understand:
N the status and role of supervision in early years settings; N the importance of reection for enhancing personal effectiveness and
learning; N supervision as a space to ‘think better’.
