I am frustrated and disappointed that after consultation on the EYFS, the Government has no plans to change proposed ratio requirements. They say 58 per cent of respondents thought the ratios 'unhelpful'. Some practitioners are concerned that the ratios are not sufficient to provide high-quality care, regardless of the setting. There is also concern that an EYP or other level 6 practitioner would not be able to deliver the same quality of provision as a teacher. It appears to be in response to this that justification to the proposed ratios is made. These ratios have operated previously within sessional provision in school nurseries. Having been a nursery teacher for many years, I found this ratio inadequate. However, I think the point to be made is that children attending sessionally are 'visiting' a situation for a few hours.
I am frustrated and disappointed that after consultation on the EYFS, the Government has no plans to change proposed ratio requirements. They say 58 per cent of respondents thought the ratios 'unhelpful'. Some practitioners are concerned that the ratios are not sufficient to provide high-quality care, regardless of the setting. There is also concern that an EYP or other level 6 practitioner would not be able to deliver the same quality of provision as a teacher. It appears to be in response to this that justification to the proposed ratios is made.
These ratios have operated previously within sessional provision in school nurseries. Having been a nursery teacher for many years, I found this ratio inadequate. However, I think the point to be made is that children attending sessionally are 'visiting' a situation for a few hours.
We have increasingly more children attending full daycare. Some attend five long days per week, with few holidays. Attention to the social and emotional needs of these children is a priority. If we are going to offer this kind of provision to children, it is our responsibility to care for them properly. We need sufficient numbers of staff available to support them. Is this being overlooked or deliberately missed?
It is ridiculous to conclude that if a teacher, EYP, or similar qualified person is present, then a ratio of 1:13 is acceptable. Is the assumption that when such a person is in the room, children's individual needs will disappear?
I can't help but feel the 'flexibility' the Government is referring to is more to do with finances than children's welfare.
Jane Donnelly, Chapeltown Children's Centre, Leeds
