Nursery World - Opinion: In my view - The reforms children need

Far too many of the poorest children aren't accessing quality childcare and early education.

That often means they're behind even before they start school, and poverty gets passed on to yet another generation.

I want to break the cycle of poverty and disadvantage that has far too many British families in its grip. Fundamental to that is expanding the reach of childcare and early years education.

I believe we must reform childcare tax credits to boost access for workless families. At the moment, because they don't get working tax credit, they don't get help with childcare.

I have pledged to put education back at the centre of Liberal Democrat campaigning if I am elected leader of my party. Childcare and early years will be a fundamental part of that. The broad thrust of the Government's childcare strategy is right, but I'm still concerned about both access and quality.

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