Nurseries will get improved outdoor play areas, computers and expanded indoor areas thanks to a ?642 million cash boost.
The money will also help improve the quality and capacity of childcare in the Private, Voluntary and Independent (PVI) sector and help deliver the extension of the 15 hours free entitlement for three and four year olds; and equip settings with facilities for children with disabilities so there are no barriers for any child accessing childcare.
Beverley Hughes, Minister of State for Children, made the announcement in a speech to Oxford University today and outlined her vision for The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). She said we want all children to start school with higher literacy, oracy and numeracy skills and with the social, emotional and physical development they need to make a flying start in full-time education.
Beverley Hughes said:
“We know that high quality early learning makes a real difference to children’s development with lasting effects throughout primary school. Our vision is about giving all parents the choice to use affordable and high quality childcare when making decisions about balancing their home and work lives.
“By setting quality standards for all early years settings, the EYFS is at the heart of our efforts to level the playing field and make sure every child is on the road to good achievement by the time they start school.
“EYFS will ensure that children get the opportunity to to learn in a play-based setting offering the stimuli they need to develop properly; while offering families free early education, flexibly, in a way that supports their individual needs.”
The Department for Children, Schools and Families wants to ensure that all settings are of the highest quality and all children – including those with disabilities – can access high quality care. The grant will also support smaller providers to make the investments needed to deliver childcare more flexibly on a local level.
EYFS is the result of extensive dialogue with parents and professionals, which means that children have the opportunity to learn through play in an inclusive, safe and secure environment.
The funding announcement comes shortly after Beverley Hughes announced ?590 million to help extend free childcare from 12.5 hours to 15 hours a week. Both funding allocations will help see that every child, and family, benefits from high quality, flexible and affordable childcare.
