All local authorities in England have been delivering between 10 and 15 hours of free early education to some disadvantaged two-year-olds since September 2009. But the Education Act, which received Royal Assent on 15 November, put the entitlement for all disadvantaged two-year-olds on a statutory footing.
Announcing the consultation on the expansion of the scheme, the Department for Education estimated that up to 140,000 two-year-olds will be eligible for the offer when it comes into force in 2013, with some councils having to provide in excess of 2,000 places.
Councillor Nickie Aiken, Westminster’s lead member for children, said that while few councils will challenge the intention, increasing provision will prove difficult.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
