Development Matters - this is a 'must read' for anyone interested in early child development. A non statutory piece of guidance still used by practitioners years after it was first published (and you can't say that about many government documents).
The EPPSE Project - a major study into the effectiveness of early years education.
The Hundred Review - a report from the Centre for Research in Early Childhood and Early Excellence, on pedagogy, practice and child outcomes in Reception classes in England. Bold Beginnings - a report from Ofsted into the Reception curriculum in schools rated good or outstanding in England.
Teaching and Play in the Early Years: A Balancing Act? - an Ofsted early years good practice survey exploring perceptions of teaching and play, part of a suite of documents to be read in conjunction with Bold Beginnings.
Unknown Children - Destined for Disadvantage? - an Ofsted survey to evaluate the effectiveness of local authorities and early years providers in tackling the issues facing disadvantaged families and their young children. Part of the suite as above.
TACTYC's Response to Bold Beginnings - analysis from TACTYC, the Association for Professional Development in Early Years.