Responses to the National Day Nurseries Association’s (NDNA) annual survey reveal that just 51 per cent of the 221 nurseries that responded are either very likely or likely to offer the extended free hours, which are being rolled out by 2020, and a quarter are very unlikely or unlikely to.
The survey was carried out in January and February, receiving responses from 221 nurseries, 23 per cent of the total number of private and third sector nurseries in Scotland.
The majority had negative feelings about the 1,140 hours mainly driven by fears that funding rates will fall short of delivery costs.
Mandatory additional charges to parents to cover shortfalls, settling session times and exemption from business rates were cited as the most popular measures to enable sustainable delivery of the extended entitlement.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
