This year saw the start of Labour's second term in office and yet more change for the early years sector, most significantly the transfer of care inspections to Ofsted.
Nurseries awaiting registration and inspection have reported chaos and delays -although most people in the sector are willing the organisation's eventual success.
The June election gave the Government the chance once more to set out its stalls for the early years - with some new money for training and expansion of Early Excellence centres, Sure Start schemes and Neighbourhood Nurseries. Early years partnerships will also get more money.
The past year has been a time of consolidation, with early years practitioners getting to grips with the demands of the Foundation Stage curriculum. For reception teachers this has involved an uncomfortable - and many would say impossible - juggling act between the play-based curriculum and the formal literacy and numeracy hours. A campaign for their removal from reception class teaching will continue next year.
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
