Universal credit could open up early years funding for 8,000 more two-year-old children
DfE says that new plans will open up funding to more disadvantaged families
Ofsted calls on government to review the EYFS
Ofsted says that Reception year is a “missed opportunity”
DfE statistics reveal inequalities at reception level
Just 56% of children eligible for free school meals reach a ‘good level of development’ by the end of reception
Social Mobility Commission highlights divide between disadvantaged and more advantaged children
Report reveals that disadvantaged children are 14% less likely to be school-ready
Only 7% of eligible parents sign up for tax-free childcare
Government spends 93% less than expected on scheme after low demand
National living wage increases to £7.83
National living and minimum wages will all rise in April 2018
Number of childminders has dropped by 26% since 2012
Latest Ofsted figures reveal a decline in the number of childminders in England
Government announces early years funding rates for 2018/19
Updated operational guidance also released
HMRC delays full rollout of tax-free childcare
Rollout to all under-12s will not start until March 2018 after technical issues
Government releases new early years menus
Menus demonstrate how settings can offer healthy meals and snacks
Minister says that some “outliers” find that funding doesn’t cover childcare costs
Robert Goodwill claims that 30 hours policy is “working successfully”
Government statistics reveal ‘postcode lottery’ for 30-hours offer
Figures show regional disparity in number of 30-hours places