to make life easier for children and families - and has advantages for
providers as well, says James Hempsall.
Childminders and full daycare nurseries are probably the models most likely to use a stretched approach. And this is something that parents should be made aware of when they are choosing their preferred provider. However, I would urge all types of setting to consider the business and quality case of such arrangements. Flexibility and choice will be key ways of meeting the needs of low-income working families.
Often, early learning for two-year-olds is described merely as a '15 hour per week' offer.
It is true this is the maximum time available on a free funded basis, but the entitlement is up to 570 hours per year, and this can be stretched across term and holiday periods: 15 hours x 38 weeks = 570 hours; or a reduced 12 hours per week if taken over 47.5 weeks.
Many families choose to take 12 hours instead of their full 15 hours per week, and find it difficult when provision is closed during school holidays, when they are still expected to work. This is especially a challenge during the long summer holidays.
There is a major economic need here too.
Some low earners may work only in term time, but there will be many thousands who do not.
Parents tell me that spreading the funded two-year-old offer and claiming childcare tax credit to support additional childcare fees is better than taking it in peaks and troughs.
Family life does not always or easily fit with school routines.
Of primary importance are the advantages for the two-year-old children themselves.
With provision spread over the year, there is a continuity of care and learning, protecting children from the scenario of repeating inductions or settling-in periods.
And the business case for providers includes: spreading income; increasing the nu
mber of children offered places; new employment opportunities for staff; and maximising the benefit of the cost of overheads and the use of premises.
If you are considering a stretched offer, please contact your local authority, as they may currently have resources available to support you.
James Hempsall is director of Hempsall's (@jhempsall, www.hempsalls.com).