Opinion

Doing things differently in Denmark

LEYF's chief executive June O'Sullivan explains how the UK Government can learn from Denmark as a beacon of best practice with its flexible work culture and extensive, affordable childcare.
June O'Sullivan, chief executive of LEYF
June O'Sullivan, chief executive of LEYF

You may have read the many national news stories last week reporting on the Duchess of Cambridge’s two-day whistle stop visit to Copenhagen – part of which was to learn about how Denmark promotes infant mental wellbeing alongside physical health, and how it harnesses the power of nature, relationships and playful learning in the first five years of life.

We often get exasperated when the Nordic childcare model is held up by British politicians and policy makers as the best example of childcare. They make it look like we could never be as good as our Nordic friends, but they fail to acknowledge the level of support, funding, and societal appreciation that underpins the Nordic childcare service which our Government does not provide here.

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