Over the past year membership of the SPPA dropped by 197 to 1,719, following a fall of 174 the previous year. SPPA groups were attended by an estimated 41,000 children, compared with 47,000 the year before. However, the average number of places within SPPA groups commissioned by local authorities has grown significantly, from seven per group in 2000 to 17 this year.
SPPA chief executive Ian McLaughlan said that the SPPA's playgroup membership had been falling steadily since 1995, and had approximately halved in that time. However, he felt that the organisation had 'turned a corner' with the strengthening of its partnership work with local authorities and a calmer period for childcare provision in Scotland.
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