First reactions to the consultation for the proposed Early Years National Funding Formula highlight the fact that a number of unanswered questions remain.
However, the document acknowledges that the current system is ‘impossible to justify or explain’ – an admission which has been welcomed.
Sarah Steel, who runs the Old Station Nursery group in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Gloucestershire, said she is set to get a rise in funding but it was still ‘no incentive’ for offering the 30 hours. She added, ‘I’m pleased the DfE has recognised there's a problem. A year ago Sam Gyimah was saying, “What problem?”
‘The formula addresses the inequality, but I think the rates in some areas are going to be disappointing.’ Regarding charges for additional services such as food, Ms Steel said there needed to be ‘enough scope for flexibility’ to make such charges.
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