New report explores critical role of nutrition in the early years
High poverty rates, increasing food prices and the poor nutritional content of commercial baby and toddler foods are some of the core barriers to good nutrition in the early years, according to a new report by The Food Foundation.
Ofsted research published on how early education can be optimised across local areas
Ofsted has today published new research and analysis around the ways in which early education and childcare can be optimised across local areas.
Applications for the 30-hour offer for nine-month-olds open
Applications for the next phase of the early entitlement expansion – where families of eligible children who will be at least nine months old by September can apply to access 30 hours of funded early years provision a week – opens today.
New consultation on early years floor space requirements launched by the DfE
The Department for Education (DfE) has launched a new consultation on Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) floor space requirements.
Report finds fewer professional development opportunities for childminders
Childminders risk being left out of professional development opportunities, a report by the Education Endowment Fund (EEF) has found
Alliance launches new toolkit to support transition from the early years to school
The Early Years Alliance has launched a new toolkit to support early years settings when preparing children for the transition from early years education to school.
Ofsted sets out intent to improve inspection plans in response to consultation
Plans to reform the education inspection system adapted in response to feedback received on the proposed changes, Ofsted has announced in a blog post.
New DfE guidance on early years nutrition coming into effect in September
The Department for Education (DfE) has published new guidance on early years nutrition, which will come into effect in September 2025.
Alliance to investigate impact of school-based nursery policy on PVI early years providers
The Early Years Alliance has filed a Freedom of Information (FoI) Act request to the Department for Education (DfE)
Report shows one in three children not meeting their Early Years Development Goals
One in three children are not meeting their Early Years Development Goals, according to a report by The Centre for Young Lives.
Alliance CEO criticises “insulting” messaging in school nursery promotions
The Department for Education shared social media posts claiming that school-based nurseries give children “a smoother transition to reception year”.
DfE launches first wave of school nurseries
The new settings are expected to offer around 6,000 new places in total.