Call for play clubs to get exemption

SkillsActive, the sector skills council for play, has called for play schemes such as after-school and holiday clubs to be exempt from the requirements of the new curriculum, which takes effect from this September.

Once the foundation stage comes into being, there may be an overlap for some playworkers who work with children aged four and five. Paul Bonel, head of playwork at SkillsActive, said this could lead to confusion over whether they are expected to work within the curriculum.

"We have been working with the Department for Children, Schools and Families to raise these concerns and help clear up the confusion," he said.

Next month Bonel will meet Kevin Brennan, junior children's minister, to discuss the issue and other concerns about whether playworkers will be able to join the early years register database.

"We need the early years register to include playwork qualifications in recognition of that role," Bonel said.