The deputy prime minister spoke of the importance of investing in the early years and of the long-term positive impact that high-quality childcare can have on children's lives.
While we are pleased Mr Clegg recognises the importance of investing in the early years, we are concerned that the coalition government is committed to taking Sure Start 'back to focus on the neediest families'.
The Pre-school Learning Alliance considers that such a move would create considerable barriers - and afford less opportunity for children from disadvantaged backgrounds to interact and develop beyond their own socio-economic position. If children's centre services are confined just to the most disadvantaged, these children and their parents will lose out. Creating an inclusive learning environment where all families interact freely can only promote greater cohesion in society.
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