News category Archives - Page 14 of 20

Government funding plans for 2024-2025 – have your say

The Department for Education (DfE) has announced a consultation into how the funded entitlements will be calculated for the expanded childcare offer from April 2024.

£204 million cash boost given to nurseries for childcare expansion

The investment intended to make childcare more accessible allowing more parents to return to work and stimulate economic growth is being celebrated by government as ‘the largest ever investment in childcare.’

Nine in ten councils fear they won’t have nursery capacity for expansion

New research by the Local Government Association reveals that nursery closures this year will have a dramatic impact on the Government’s planned extension of the 30 hours free childcare scheme.

Latest Ofsted stats show 650 nurseries fewer and almost one in five nurseries given poor grading

The picture looks grim for nurseries and pre-schools, with a net loss of 651 settings on the EY register in just one year and more than 4,000 places lost since August alone.

Staff turnover 29% in Scottish private nurseries

New data published this week revealed that staff turnover in private nurseries in Scotland is shockingly high at 29% compared with 11% in the public sector.

Early years leaders honoured in King’s Birthday List

To mark the extraordinary contributions and services to Early Years Education three NDNA members have been recognised in the first King’s Birthday Honours List.

Audit Scotland: Roll-out of 1140 hours leaves sector fragile

NDNA’s CEO said, “The aims of the funded ELC policy are well supported but today’s report shows there are still a lot of issues with the 1140 hours expansion"

Government to consult on further changes to the EYFS

The Department for Education has launched an eight week consultation on possible changes to the Early Years Foundation Stage as part of reforms they hope will help providers.

Childcare payments for Universal Credit overhauled after NDNA campaign

As part of the Government’s biggest ever expansion to childcare provision, low-income families will be able to access increased childcare support from 28 June.

National Minimum Standards refreshed – Wales

The National Minimum Standards was refreshed and published on 18 May following the consultation that NDNA Cymru responded to. These changes come into force immediately.