Hodge's previous spell as early years minister overseeing the national childcare strategy was certainly action-packed. She is reportedly absolutely delighted to be back in this arena after a troubled time in charge of higher education, where she made few friends. Whether the early years sector will feel quite such unalloyed joy is open to question after her championing such controversial moves as the childminders' smoking and smacking, but the appointment is being generally well received. She will certainly make sure that childcare has a high profile in government.
Her expanded role as Minister for Children, bringing in responsibilities from other departments, is also good news in the drive to integrate children's services and family policy into one unit. The forthcoming Children's Green Paper, now promising to encompass reforms more far-reaching than its original 'children at risk' brief, will ensure a lively start for the new minister.
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