A PETITION calling for all primary heads to be given a grounding in early-years learning has won wide support. Started by early-years consultant Margaret Edgington it has attracted around 500 signatures in just two months. Ms Edgington is concerned that nursery and reception teachers are being pressured to teach the three Rs, even though the “foundation stage” for three to five-year-olds is play-based and emphasisies social, personal and physical skills. The petition closes on October 1. Contact Ms Edgington by e-mail: edgington@madasafish.com