Unprecedented numbers of Eastern Europeans have come to the UK since joining the European Union (EU) in 2004. The Government predicted 15,000 people a year entering from the eight new EU member countries, but it approved more than 400,000 work applications between May 2004 and June 2006. More than half of these people are from Poland and many have brought children with them. Around 27,000 UK child benefit applications have already been approved.
Along with the Government statisticians taken by surprise, schools and nurseries have been taken unaware, especially in areas where staff previously had little experience of including ethnically diverse children.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here