It is understood that there is already likely to be a shortage of 40,000 places for the initial rollout of the scheme from September 2013.
The chancellor's announcement in his Autumn Statement to extend the number of nursery places for two-year-olds to 40 per cent of children, from 2014-15, means thousands more places will need to be found.
The Government says that it will be investing an extra £380m a year in the scheme, so that up to 260,000 two-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours of nursery education a week. However, it is understood that officials at the Department for Education have estimated that there could already be a shortfall of 40,000 places for the initial rollout, which will entitle 20 per cent of two-year-olds to a free place for 15 hours a week from 2013.
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
