News

Staying power

Why do early years staff leave - and what measures can a conscientious manager introduce to get them to stay, and increase the value of their contribution to the setting? Research points constantly to the link between good early years provision and positive, capable and enthusiastic practitioners. Children respond better when offered continuity of care, and parents and carers value consistency of provision for their children.

Research points constantly to the link between good early years provision and positive, capable and enthusiastic practitioners. Children respond better when offered continuity of care, and parents and carers value consistency of provision for their children.

Yet over the past three years, the early years sector has experienced an ever-deepening recruitment and retention crisis that has threatened the quality and continuity of care that young children need. The situation is likely to worsen. Childcare providers will, therefore, have to think more creatively about how to recruit and retain staff in the future.

Current situation

The number of childcare places has almost doubled in recent years and the number of nurseries has risen from 5,500 in 1998 to 9,964, according to the 2002/2003 Childcare and Early Years Workforce Survey - Day Nurseries and other Full-day Care Provision, published by the Sure Start Unitin May this year.

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

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here