More reassuring noises came from the Government in the past week about its continuing commitment to expanding childcare, as trade and industry secretary Patricia Hewitt took to the stage at the Daycare Trust conference to compare the sector to transport in its importance to the British economy (see News, page 4). The problem is that the road to achieving the aims of the National Childcare Strategy turns into a cul-de-sac when it comes to pay and conditions for childcare workers, as delegates to the conference pointed out forcefully. Until matters are improved, it will be impossible to attract the right numbers and the calibre of people needed to provide a bigger and better childcare service. One might also query whether it is wise to highlight a comparison with transport, given the mess that sector is currently in!
More reassuring noises came from the Government in the past week about its continuing commitment to expanding childcare, as trade and industry secretary Patricia Hewitt took to the stage at the Daycare Trust conference to compare the sector to transport in its importance to the British economy (see News, page 4).
The problem is that the road to achieving the aims of the National Childcare Strategy turns into a cul-de-sac when it comes to pay and conditions for childcare workers, as delegates to the conference pointed out forcefully. Until matters are improved, it will be impossible to attract the right numbers and the calibre of people needed to provide a bigger and better childcare service. One might also query whether it is wise to highlight a comparison with transport, given the mess that sector is currently in!
Proof that expansion of childcare is taking place in some areas is to be found in this week's free Nursery Chains supplement, however, with more groups listed than ever and individual chains growing their businesses both organically and by acquisition. Turn to Nursery Chains for a fascinating insight into the world of the biggest private players in the market.
