A strong case for playgroups

The Early Learning Goals are not new to most Pre-school Learning Alliance playgroups, as we have been working to this curriculum for years. Now everything has to be recorded, which we do in our own time and for no extra money (teachers please note).

At long last we are being recognised as quality educators and not 'just a bunch of mums', as the misguided believe. We work long and hard hours for less pay than most cleaners would get, plus we have to train in our own time, such is our dedication.

In my local area we are lucky that our Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership recognises our work and has helped with some free training, grants, and so on. While we know the Government is providing money for expansion and so on, it is not always possible to expand, nor are longer hours suitable for young children in some cases. We would be grateful for much more money as most of the staff are on the minimum wage of 4.10 per hour and we have to rely on parents' fundraising for the playgroup or else putting up the fees beyond their reach.