Fri 27 Sep 2024
As we enter a new chapter in early years education, recent announcements by Education Minister Bridget Phillipson signal a significant shift in how nursery spaces are developed and delivered across the UK. With the government unveiling plans to deliver 3,000 new nurseries by upgrading spare spaces in primary schools, the first stage of this ambitious project is set to roll out next month.
What’s Happening?
Starting in October, schools across the UK will have the opportunity to bid for a share of £15 million in capital funding to create or expand nurseries. This initial phase aims to deliver up to 300 new or expanded nurseries, with the funding to be allocated in Spring 2025. The driving force behind this initiative is to meet the growing demand for childcare as government-funded hours for working parents expand to 30 hours a week by 2025.
Key Considerations for Nursery Managers
For nursery managers, this expansion offers both opportunities and challenges. The government’s focus on “underserved and poorer areas” means that the success of this programme could hinge on how well schools and nurseries collaborate. As Purnima Tanuku, CEO of the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), noted, many private, voluntary, and independent (PVI) nurseries have been eager to expand but have lacked access to capital grant funding. This initiative could level the playing field, but only if PVI providers are fully integrated into the process.
The Role of PVI Nurseries
Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance, has highlighted the vital role that PVI nurseries play in delivering high-quality early education. With 85,000 additional childcare places needed by September 2025, the involvement of PVI settings will be crucial. However, concerns remain about whether these providers will be included in the planning and funding processes. The logistics of integrating PVI nurseries into school spaces, including issues around leases, space usage, and the blending of educational cultures, must be addressed.
Challenges Ahead
For schools considering bids, there are several key questions to answer:
• How will they ensure that their nursery expansion meets the needs of their local area?
• What are the logistical challenges of converting existing spaces into nurseries?
• How can they effectively collaborate with PVI providers to maximize the reach and quality of early years education?
Moreover, nursery managers must consider the implications of this expansion on their existing settings. With 199 nurseries having closed in the last academic year—many in deprived areas—there is a pressing need to ensure that this new initiative supports, rather than undermines, the current early years landscape.
Looking Forward
As the first phase of this programme rolls out, it will be essential for nursery managers, local authorities, and other stakeholders to work closely together. The success of this initiative could redefine early years education, offering new opportunities for children and families across the UK.
But with so much at stake, the big question remains: Will the government’s plan truly create a “child-centred” system that benefits all, or will it leave some providers out in the cold?
Stay informed: Keep up with the latest developments and how they might impact your nursery by following updates from industry bodies like the Early Years Alliance and the NDNA. As more details emerge, understanding these changes will be key to navigating this new era in early years education.