Nursery World - Editor's view (339)

Private and voluntary sector providers are often quoted as calling for a 'level playing field' with state-funded childcare. This week there's good news and bad news - some bits of the field appear to be getting flatter, while others are in danger of the gradient getting steeper! The National Day Nurseries Association has been given funding by the Department for Education and Skills to work with a selection of local authorities on involving the private and voluntary sectors in developing childcare (see News, page 4). Many private nursery groups have been vociferous about how excluded they feel, despite reassurances from central Government that local authorities are expected to include them. This is the first sign of action as opposed to words. With the expected levels of funding, Government initiatives need the non-maintained providers - it makes no sense to shut them out or ruin their business.

The National Day Nurseries Association has been given funding by the Department for Education and Skills to work with a selection of local authorities on involving the private and voluntary sectors in developing childcare (see News, page 4). Many private nursery groups have been vociferous about how excluded they feel, despite reassurances from central Government that local authorities are expected to include them. This is the first sign of action as opposed to words. With the expected levels of funding, Government initiatives need the non-maintained providers - it makes no sense to shut them out or ruin their business.

Not so positive, however, is the position with the nursery education grant (see News, page 4). Inequalities between the amounts paid to state and other providers will only get worse unless the allocation system is changed. Private and voluntary providers need to lobby hard now, with the consultation still in progress, or the current arrangements will be locked in for three years more.

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