An obvious problem with interviewing a Government minister just after the announcement of a major policy review, but before it gets underway, is that the answer to many of the questions is that the review will provide the answers!
So children's minister Sarah Teather is quite justified in not second-guessing the outcome of Dame Clare Tickell's review of the Early Years Foundation Stage in her first major interview since taking up her post (see pages 10-11).
Nonetheless, it is possible to pick up clues about departmental thinking from Ms Teather's statements, not least the phrase about 'making children ready for school', which seems to be becoming something of a mantra for the Department for Education. 'Funding applications have to include something about getting them ready for school to stand any chance of getting money,' said one charity head gloomily last week.
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
