News

Number of childcare providers plummet as recession hits

The number of nurseries, childminders and out-of-school clubs has dropped dramatically since last summer, official figures reveal, as early years organisations blame the recession for driving providers out of business.

Ofsted statistics on the number of registered childcare providers and places in England show that there are now at least 8,181 fewer childcare providers than there were at the end of August.

At the end of December 2008 the number of group settings was down by 6,510 and there were 1,671 fewer childminders.

Figures for the end of March, due next month, are expected to reveal a bleaker picture.

Ofsted's latest report is the first to group information on childcare providers according to whether they are registered on the Early Years Register, covering from birth to five, or the Childcare Register, from five to seven years old.

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

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here