Ofsted chief inspector Sir Michael Wilshaw used the launch of the inspectorate's first early years annual report earlier this month to open a new front in his battle to improve early education standards.
In typically robust fashion, Wilshaw pinned the blame for some disadvantaged children being developmentally 18 months behind their wealthier peers when they get to reception on the failure of the early years sector to properly prepare them for school.
He says childminders, nursery workers and children's centre staff do not have the advanced skills and training necessary to meet the additional developmental needs of those from poorer backgrounds.
Early support
Instead, he believes that schools are best placed to manage and deliver this support, and that they should be providing early education to disadvantaged children as young as two-years-old in order to give them the best start in life.
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
