The amendment, published last month, states under 'Standard 2: Organisation, staff ratios and deployment', that 'if your trainees are 17 years or older, they may be included in staffing ratios, if you are satisfied that they are competent and responsible'.
Nursery operators reacted to the news with dismay. Lynn Gorman, deputy co-ordinator of the Fellowship House Children's Centre, a voluntary sector community nursery in the London borough of Newham, said the amendment 'horrified' her. She said, 'This seems to me to be a way of having staff for free. The term "competent and responsible" is a very loose one and I would be extremely concerned both for the children's and the student's welfare - both would be at risk.'
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
