A Lancashire nursery speaks out about why the 30hrs free childcare could have a negative impact
Currently, children are entitled to 15hrs free childcare. However, in certain areas from September, this will be increased to 30hrs. The Government scheme is to help working parents with childcare. It was announced back in February by Sam Gyimah that £13 million would be invested to help councils across the country offer the extended free entitlement.
However, a Lancashire nursery has expressed their concerns over the extended hours, stating that increasing the hours will result in children born in poverty being left behind.
Many nursery schools will have to reduce the number of places on offer due to the extension of the free hours. It is vital that children from families who are not working can access the free childcare entitlement. It has been highlighted that these children’s attainment levels are lower compared to other children.
By increasing the hours from 30 to 15 will mean other children who need the support will miss out on receiving high-quality care. This will mean that children are not being given the same amount of education compared to their peers, leading to some failing to make significant progress.
According to Head teacher Sue Conron and Deputy Head Ann Callander) they explain it will not be fair to give children who live in a workless household only 15 hours when these children are the ones that could with the full 30hrs. Giving these children the 30hrs free childcare will help close the gap in attainment instead of making it bigger.
The pilot scheme is to be rolled out this September across eight counties, followed by the rest in 2017.
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