CYP Now - Analysis: Early Years - Sector weighs up funding reform

A Government consultation on funding the free early years entitlement has been welcomed by campaigners. But there is a question mark hanging over whether the proposals go far enough in addressing current inequalities, reports Cathy Wallace.

Early years campaigners have been pushing for changes to fundingarrangements for the free childcare entitlement, arguing thatringfencing cash would be the best way to ensure everyone gets a fairdeal.

All too often providers in the private and voluntary sectors findthemselves struggling as money for early years, delivered through theDedicated Schools Grant, is swallowed up by schools.

What's more, a lack of early years representation on decision-makingschool boards means that the sector can be overlooked at the cruciallevel. Faced with higher business rates, rents, staffing costs and otheroverheads, many private and voluntary providers have to resort tocharging parents top-up fees to fill the funding gap.

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