However, despite all the progress, the fundamental split between education and care that has always been a feature of UK early years provision still exists (see Special Report, pages 10-11). And the Government's drive to eradicate child poverty could actually lead to education being eclipsed by care.
The guidance for the Children's Centres, intended to be bastions of integration, is careful to stress that there should be teacher input to services. Indeed, it suggests that children should get the same quality of learning experience on offer in a maintained nursery school. But with no requirement to employ teachers or for them to work with children every day, funding shortages mean that it will be more likely that cheaper, less qualified staff are hired.
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