Coronavirus (Covid-19)

covid 19

These pages are for all staff working directly with children and families in an early years provision.

It is not intended to replace any guidance issued by the Government.

NEW! All of the learning and development and assessment EYFS disapplications have now been removed, meaning providers will need to reinstate the EYFS for these areas from 26 September 2020. Read more.
NEW! When the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ends on 31 October it will be replaced by the Job Support Scheme, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced (24 Sept).
NEW! The 'Actions for early years and childcare providers' guidance has been updated (22 Sept) in a range of areas including face coverings, parents, music groups and pick-ups and drop-offs. Read the main changes to the guidance here.
NEW! Following the new 'rule of six', the government has confirmed people will still be able to meet in groups of more than six for registered childcare (including wraparound care), youth groups and activities, and other children's groups. The guidance is here (see sections 2.10 and 2.15).
The government's plans for early year entitlement funding for the autumn term and beyond are availble in this guidance.
For questions on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, Furlough Leave and Related Employment Matters please see our FAQs on our Business Advice page.
For questions on how the Job Retention Scheme and the Early Years Entitlement funding work together please see our FAQs page on these schemes.

The COVID-19 outbreak is an ever-evolving situation. This information will be updated regularly as things change.

Coronavirus helpline

The Department for Education has a helpline for early years providers, schools and colleges – as well as parents, carers and young people – who have questions about coronavirus.

If you have specific questions about the virus, you can contact the helpline on:

Call: 0800 046 8687

Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk